The Las Cruces Police Department is participating in “See Tracks, Think Train” Safety Week from September 14 to 20. The event, previously known as Rail Safety Week, aims to promote safety near railroad tracks.
According to Operation Livesaver Inc., GoRail New Mexico, and other rail industry partners, incidents involving trains occur frequently across the country. In the United States, a person or vehicle is struck by a train every three hours.
To address these risks, the Las Cruces Police Department and its partners are sharing several safety tips for residents:
“Always stay alert. Watch and listen for trains and stay clear of tracks when trains are approaching.
Never walk, run, play or stand near railroad tracks and rail bridges. Railroad tracks and trains are private property and trespassing is forbidden.
Never try boarding or dismounting a moving train.
Never drive around, under or through a lowered crossing gate.
Never try beating or racing a moving train to a crossing.
Watch for the blue and white signs, flashing lights and crossing gates at rail crossings.
For rail crossings with no gate, approach the tracks cautiously and be ready to stop if necessary.
Buses and vehicles transporting hazardous material are required by law to stop at railroad tracks before crossing. Slow down and use caution when approaching any vehicle stopped at a rail crossing.
Know your vehicle’s ground clearance and its ability to safely cross when roadways have different elevations on each side of the tracks.
If your vehicle becomes stuck on or in close proximity to a rail crossing, have all passengers exit a safe distance away and immediately call 911 to report.”
Residents are also encouraged to report damaged railroad infrastructure or stalled vehicles near rails by calling their local 911 center. In Las Cruces and Doña Ana County, non-emergency reports can be made at (575) 526-0795.
