Railway Safety

Safety near railways is really important, which is why we are sharing rail safety information from Network Rail.

Key messages:

• Trains are fast and quiet, travelling up to 125mph and taking 2km (1 and a quarter miles) to come to a stop.
• It is against the law to trespass on the railway and can result in a fine of £1,000 and a criminal record. This isn’t just about going onto the tracks; climbing over our fences, throwing things onto the railway etc. is still dangerous and can lead to police involvement even if you don’t go on the tracks.
• The electricity is ALWAYS switched on around the railway including the equipment boxes and overhead wires, and these use very high voltages and are very dangerous.
• You don’t have to be touching the wires to receive an electric shock as electricity can jump (arc) up to 3 metres in any direction – including upwards. Even if you’re above the wires (e.g. climbing on a bridge) it doesn’t mean you’re safe from them when getting too close. The injuries received from such a shock can be life-changing, and unfortunately are often deadly.
• Always Stop, Look and Listen before using a Level Crossing. Never start to cross a level crossing when its lights are flashing.
• Make sure you’re paying attention whenever you use any kind of level crossing; keep dogs on short leads, walk across with bikes and horses rather than riding them across, and don’t be distracted by phones, earphones etc. as you use the crossing.
• Trains can generate turbulence as they go past, it’s strong enough to drag someone onto the tracks or under the train – another good reason to not trespass, and the reason why there are yellow lines on platforms.