Stay safe at railroad crossings. Know the blue and white signs!
Rail Safety Week runs Sunday, 9/21 thru Saturday, 9/27. SEPTA is joining the national effort to raise awareness about safe practices near railroad tracks and crossings. Every year preventable incidents occur at rail crossings but knowing what to do in an emergency can save lives.
One of the most important safety tools you’ll find at a railroad crossing is the Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign or the small blue and white sign posted near the crossing.
ENS signs provide critical information that connects you directly to the railroad. Each sign displays a phone number to call in case of an emergency and a unique crossing ID number that identifies your exact location.
If you ever find yourself in a situation where your vehicle is stuck on the tracks, warning lights or gates are malfunctioning, or you see an obstruction or unsafe condition on the track—here’s what to do:
1. Dial the number on the sign immediately.
2. Give the operator the crossing ID number and railroad dispatchers will act quickly to stop or slow train traffic and send help to the scene.
Every second counts in an emergency. By using the ENS sign you provide the railroad with precise information to respond faster which protects yourself, passengers, and others on the tracks.
See tracks? Think train! Railroad tracks are active and trains can move faster and quieter than expected. During Rail Safety Week and every day remember never stop on the tracks, look both ways before crossing, and always know where to find the blue and white ENS signs.
We also encourage riders to contact SEPTA Transit Police via the SEPTA app in case of an emergency. You can also contact SEPTA Transit Police with a simple text message to (215) 234-1911. Click here to learn more.