A Magical Time of Year: Be Aware of Added Distractions

December is a magical and festive month during our winter season, filled with good cheer and joyful celebrations. However, this time of year can also bring added safety concerns that you should be aware of in order to enjoy your festivities safely.

The winter season often brings unpredictable and stormy weather, making driving on our roads challenging and dangerous. Schedules become busier, and life tends to get a little more hectic with more tasks to complete at home and more errands to run. On top of it all, we have many celebrations with family, friends, and co-workers, these changes can disrupt our daily routines and affect our sleeping patterns leading to fatigue and distractions.

To help you navigate the excitement and wonder of the season, we are sharing some safety tips to help you make safe choices near tracks and trains and keep your holidays merry and bright.

• Never walk on or beside railroad tracks! It is illegal and dangerous.
• The only safe place to cross tracks is at designated public crossings. Crossing anywhere else is illegal.

• Never pass flashing lights or go around lowered gates. Always wait until the lights have stopped flashing and the gates are completely raised.

• Wait to cross until you can see clearly in both directions. Multiple tracks may mean multiple trains.

• Never try to beat a train. It is not worth the risk. Trains have the right of way 100% off the time.
• Avoid distractions! No texting, headphones, or any other distractions that may prevent you from hearing an approaching train.
• Always Expect a Train! Trains can move on any track in either direction at any time and may be moving faster than you think.
• Rain, snow, and wind can muffle the sound of a train, so use extra caution near railroad tracks.
• Stay alert whenever you drive. Don’t drive drowsy!
• NEVER Drink and Drive!