(The following appeared on the Calgary Herald website on April 26, 2010.)
CALGARY — Canadian Pacific police officers are stepping up enforcement this week, taking part in blitzes at railway crossings and running anti-trespassing patrols around rail operations across the province.
The campaign runs in conjunction with Railway Safety Week and is aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of taking risks when it comes to railways.
Last year, Transport Canada reported 186 crossing collisions, including 19 fatalities and 21 serious injuries.
Of the 70 incidents involving trespassers, there were 52 fatalities.
“Ignoring signage at railway crossings and trespassing on railway property creates significant unnecessary personal risks that often lead to personal injury or death,” said CP police Sgt. Doug Kinloch.
Trespassers and those who fail to yield to trains can also be charged under the Rail Safety Act or provincial legislation.
In southern Alberta, the blitzes will take place in Balzac, Canmore, Calgary and some locations south and east of the city.