11.08.17
The railway is not a playground
Respecting and understanding the dangers of the railway is an essential lesson for young people. Trespassing on the railway is a hazard that Network Rail has to deal with every day, as many people, especially children and young adults, underestimate the risks associated with playing around tracks, stations and level crossings.
Back in June, the BTP issued a serious warning after a teen was almost killed trespassing at a Bescot depot. And now, Network Rail has released its own image after discovering shocking CCTV footage of young people failing to use the crossing safely.
To tackle the issue, NR decided to close the crossing, in Rossington, Doncaster, from 3 June to 8 October to minimise the risk of any other children going on to the crossing.
“The photos are deeply worrying,” said Vicki Beadle, the organisation’s community safety manager. “This crossing lies on the East Coast Main Line and sees almost 200 trains a day pass over it, which can travel at speeds of up to 125mph.”
During the closure, the infrastructure owner will also go around schools in the area to educate young people about using level crossings.
“As well as the high frequency and speeds of the trains, the crossing also has overhead line equipment, which carries 25,000 volts of electricity and would deliver a powerful electric shock to anyone coming into contact with the wires,” Beadle continued.
“The railway is not a playground and it’s vital that users treat crossings with the respect they deserve. We will be visiting schools and colleges in the area to highlight how important it is to follow safety warnings at level crossings, but we can’t do this until schools return in September.
“This closure will be in place until October, but, as the summer holidays continue, we are asking parents to make sure they know where their children are playing, as well as informing them on how to stay safe on the railway.”
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