What you need to know

Life-saving safety rules to discuss with your child:

1. Only cross at railroad crossings. Always look both ways before crossing the tracks.

2. Obey all signs and signals. Listen for a warning bell and train whistles. Watch for flashing lights.

3. Never try to cross the tracks if a train is coming. Trains are very large and heavy, and take a long time to stop!

4. When a train is coming, stand at least 10 giant steps away from the tracks.

5. If one train passes, make sure another one isn’t coming. Trains can come from any direction at any time on another track.

6. Get off your bike and walk it across the tracks. Don’t forget to wear your helmet when you ride your bike.

7. Walking or playing on railroad tracks is dangerous.

Test Your Knowledge

Question 1: A train is going 55mph. After the train driver applies the brakes, how far will the train travel before it comes to a stop?

Answer: The length of about 20 football fields (up to 1 mile).

Question 2: How long does it take from the time the lights begin to flash until the train travels through the crossing?

Answer: As little as 20 seconds – not enough time to make it across.

Test Your Child's Knowledge

Question: What must you do before crossing railroad tracks at a crossing?

Answer: Always stop and look both ways before crossing. Listen for a warning bell and watch for flashing lights.

The Safe Crossing Program is a joint initiative with Safe Kids USA and CN – North America’s Railroad.