23.03.20
Children and parents reminded of the dangers around the railway
Following the news on Friday that schools will be closed for the foreseeable future, British Transport Police and Network Rail are urging parents and careers to have a conversation with their children and loved ones about the dangers of trespassing on the railway.
Yearly, there is a rise in the number of trespass incidents ahead of the Easter school holidays. Now, with children being out of school and the knowledge that fewer passenger trains are running, there could be a greater temptation to stray onto the rail network.
Each year, hundreds of people take risks on and around the railway, resulting in tragic consequences and life-changing injuries.
Last year, 1, 076 trespass incidents were recorded in Wales and 317 of these involved youths.
British Transport Police Inspector, Beata Evans, explained: “We are continuing to proactively patrol the thousands of miles of railway network we police across Wales. Safety is our number one priority. We’re asking that we all speak to the young people in our lives and make them aware of the importance of rail safety, so that they understand that everyone loses when you step on the track.”
Bill Kelly, Network Rail route director, Wales and Borders, said: “The Easter holidays are the start of the peak for railway trespass and with schools now closed for an extended period, I am concerned that the railway will become the default play area for some younger people.
“Each year, we see hundreds of people taking risks on and around the railway, resulting in tragic consequences and life-changing injuries. Both these outcomes are very avoidable.
“I would strongly urge adults to talk to their children and younger relatives about the dangers of trespassing on the railway.”
Image: Network Rail