All too frequently people read in the paper or hear on the news about a pedestrian who has been struck by a train and killed or seriously injured.
Each year in Washington State for the last 10 years, at least 16 pedestrians were struck and killed by a train, according to a media release from the Kent-based Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority. In 2015 that number spiked to 27 people killed.
So why does it happen? According to Puget Sound Fire, there are a number of reasons why pedestrians are struck by trains:
• Alcohol or other intoxicants – Alcohol dulls the senses, slows reflexes, and affects the decision making process.
• Distractions – Headphones, friends, cellphones, and other distractions can reduce awareness of the danger.
• Suicides – Many of the pedestrian versus train incidents are intentional.
• Playing on trestles – Many trestles span rivers and seem to be fun and safe places for young people.
• Lack of awareness about the danger – Not realizing how close a train is or how fast it is traveling.
• Quieter trains – Modern trains are much quieter than older ones.
• Quieter tracks – Modern track rails are longer, reducing or eliminating the classic “clickity – clack” noise.
In Kent, there have been several instances of people struck by trains. At least one recent case was a teen who did not hear the train due to either music or a cellphone. Often these tragedies happen away from established rail crossings. Keep in mind that if you are on any rail lines, you are trespassing on private property.
A diesel electric locomotive can weigh more 150 tons and a fully loaded rail car more than 100 tons. A 100 car freight train can therefore weigh more than 10,000 tons. It takes more than a mile for a train of this size to come to a complete stop. This means that even if a train engineer sees someone on the tracks, there is very little chance of stopping in time.
What can the public do to reduce the number of incidents involving pedestrians and trains? Follow these simple rules:
• Only cross tracks at designated public crossings.
• When crossing tracks, take the time to look both directions first.
• Remember to look carefully and check for a second train before crossing tracks.
• Remember that trains can travel from either direction.
• Never cross or walk on tracks at any time other than at established crossings.
• Keep in mind that trains are much wider than the tracks, so stand well back from moving trains.
• Moving trains create a vortex of wind that can knock a person down or towards the train.
• Never jump from, fish on or walk on trestles.
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