Metrolink Matters 
The earlier the better when teaching kids to be “track smart.” Along with teaching kids the importance of avoiding streets because they can be dangerous, parents can also use the same safety rules when teaching kids about railroad tracks.
To stay safe near railroad tracks, parents and children need to discuss and follow these simple life-saving safety rules:
- Only cross at marked railroad crossings and always look both ways before crossing the tracks.
- Obey all signs and signals. Listen for a warning bell or train whistle and watch for flashing lights.
- Never try to cross the tracks if a train is coming. Trains are very large and heavy, and take a long time to stop.
- When a train is coming, stand at least ten giant steps away from the tracks. If one train passes, make sure another one isn’t coming. Trains can come from any direction at any time on any track.
- Get off your bike and walk it across the tracks and don’t forget to wear your helmet.
- Walking or playing on or near railroad tracks is dangerous and should always be avoided.
Thanks for the tips about how trains can take a long time to stop because they are heavy and large and they can come from any direction on any track. I can see how being safe around a railroad can be really useful so that nothing can go wrong or will be dangerous. Having the right train cars could be really useful and allow them to be more efficient and have better quality.