Slave Lake RCMP remind residents to exercise caution near railways
Slave Lake, Alta.– The Slave Lake RCMP is reminding residents—particularly parents and guardians—about the dangers of playing near or crossing train tracks in undesignated areas.
Whether in rural areas or at busy crossings, rail lines are not safe places to play, walk, or take shortcuts. Tracks should only be crossed at designated public crossings, and the public is reminded that trespassing on railway property is both dangerous and illegal.
To help keep our communities safe, the Slave Lake RCMP is asking everyone to keep the following rail safety facts in mind:
- Trains can’t stop quickly. Even with full emergency braking, a train can require more than two kilometers to come to a complete stop.
- Trains are larger and faster than they appear. Due to their size and the illusion of distance, trains often look like they are moving slowly when in fact they are approaching much faster than people realize.
- Trespassing is illegal. Walking or playing on railway tracks or property is against the law and puts lives at risk.
- A train hitting a car is like a car crushing a pop can. A typical freight train weighs over 5,500 tons—compared to the average car’s 1.5 tons—making collisions catastrophic.
- Stopped trains can move at any time. Being close to idle railcars or standing between them is extremely dangerous, as movement can happen suddenly.
- Trains can travel in either direction, on any track, at any time. Never assume the track is clear and always look both ways before crossing at a legal railway crossing.
“Rail safety starts with awareness. Stay alert, obey signals, and never take risks around tracks,” says S/Sgt. Casey Bruyns, Slave Lake RCMP Detachment Commander.
The Slave Lake RCMP encourages all parents and caregivers to speak to their children about these risks and to reinforce that railways are not play areas. Preventing tragedy starts with awareness and education.
If you witness unsafe behavior or trespassing near train tracks, please call CN Police at 1-800-465-9239, or contact your local RCMP detachment.
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