(Source: Operation Lifesaver press release, September 15, 2021)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Operation Lifesaver Inc. (OLI), the national nonprofit rail safety education organization, and its safety partners Operation Lifesaver Canada and the Mexican Association of Railroads (AMF) are leading this year’s observance of Rail Safety Week in North America, September 20-26. In the U.S., each day of Rail Safety Week will emphasize a different theme. This year the U.S. is planning a hybrid observance, with in-person events led by state Operation Lifesaver programs as well as virtual activities and social media efforts to share lifesaving messages.
Federal statistics show that about every three hours in the United States, a person or vehicle is hit by a train; 2,100 North Americans are injured or killed each year in these preventable incidents. Rail Safety Week is observed in the U.S., Canada and Mexico each September.
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. is releasing new video and audio public service announcements (PSAs) during the week.
WHAT: Rail Safety Week throughout North America
WHEN: Monday, Sept. 20-Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021
DAILY THEMES:
- Monday, September 20kicks off the week with the overarching theme of #STOPTrackTragedies and a focus on Media Outreach and Rail Safety Week Proclamations in states and localities.
- Tuesday, September 21 focuses on the fifth annual observance ofOperation Clear Track in the U.S. and Canada emphasizing the importance of obeying crossing safety and anti-trespass laws. Law enforcement partners will conduct awareness exercises, Officer on the Train activities and other in person positive enforcement events; first responders will share RSW messages virtually through social media, email messaging and website posts.
- Wednesday, September 22 highlights Crossing Safety, with outreach to the general public, farmers and farm machine operators as well as outdoor enthusiasts on safe crossing techniques with special attention to the Blue and White Emergency Notification System (ENS) signs at crossings.
- Thursday, September 23, Transit Safety Thursday and Professional Driver Safety, showcases how to stay safe as a rail commuter or transit rider as well as safe choices around railroad tracks and trains for professional drivers.
- Friday, September 24 focuses on Wearing Red or “Red Out” for Rail Safety by encouraging safety organizations, partners, schools, railroads and the general public to wear red at public events and to share photos on social media.
- Saturday, September 25 highlights Trespass Prevention, educating pedestrians, cyclists, joggers and outdoor enthusiasts about the dangers posed by being on or near the tracks.
- Sunday, September 26 promotes No Photo, Video or Selfie is Worth the Risk, to warn professional and amateur photographers against putting themselves or others in danger by illegally taking photos, videos, or filming near tracks and trains.