INDIANA– Indiana Operation Lifesaver is joining other Operation Lifesaver programs across North America to observe.
Rail Safety Week from September 15-21. The annual event aims to raise awareness and educate the public on the importance of making safe choices around railroad tracks and trains. In Indiana, over 100 people are killed or injured each year in incidents at grade crossings or due to trespassing.
“Through rail safety education during this week and every day, we are empowering Indiana residents to make safe choices around railroad tracks and trains and to help keep their communities safe,” said Indiana Operation Lifesaver Executive Director Jessica Feder.
The organization is highlighting the
#STOPTrackTragedies campaign, which features personal stories from individuals directly impacted by rail incidents. The whole campaign can be viewed online at oli.org/stop-track-tragedies or stoptracktragedies.ca.
The week’s activities will follow a daily theme:
- Monday, Sept. 15: The week kicks off with an emphasis on proclamations and media outreach, as well as the release of new public service announcements (PSAs).
- Tuesday, Sept. 16: Operation Clear Track focuses on obeying crossing safety and anti-trespass laws. Law enforcement will conduct awareness activities, and first responders will share safety messages.
- Wednesday, Sept. 17: The theme of Crossing Safety highlights the importance of the Blue and White Emergency Notification System (ENS) signs at crossings for drivers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Thursday, Sept. 18: Transit Safety Thursday and Professional Driver Safety will provide information on staying safe as a rail commuter and for professional drivers.
- Friday, Sept. 19: This day focuses on volunteering with Operation Lifesaver and encourages partners and the public to Wear Red in support of rail safety.
- Saturday, Sept. 20: The theme of Trespass Prevention aims to educate pedestrians, cyclists, joggers, and others about the dangers of being on or near tracks.
- Sunday, Sept. 21: The week concludes with the theme “No Photo, Video, or Selfie is Worth the Risk,” a warning to photographers and social media influencers about the dangers of filming near trains.
Indiana Operation Lifesaver is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting rail safety education through public awareness campaigns and a volunteer network that offers free presentations. For more information, to request a presentation, or to volunteer, visit oli.org. You can also follow Operation Lifesaver on social media.
