Rail Safety Tips
When you're walking...
- Always stop, look, and listen for trains before crossing the tracks - cross only at crosswalks and be sure to look both ways.
- Don't stand on the tracks or step in front of a train - the operator may not see you or be able to stop in time.
- Always stand behind the textured warning strips on rail platforms.
When you're waiting for a train...
- Remember: Trains stop at every station - there is no need to wave at the operator so they will stop.
- As a train approaches, be sure you are behind the textured warning strips - and never, ever try to catch a moving train. Another will be along in a few minutes.
When you're in a car...
- Never race a train to a crossing - you will never have a second chance if you lose.
- Be careful turning across train tracks - it's where more accidents happen.
- Always obey all traffic signs and signals; never assume you have the right-of-way - and look both ways before crossing.
- Expect a train on any track at any time - if a train goes by, watch out for a second one - and be sure to look in both directions.
- Never stop your car on train tracks - if you stall or get stuck, get everyone out of the vehicle and off the tracks.
- Don't anticipate lights or creep out at rail intersections - and never, ever drive around the crossing gates.
- Remember: Trains can't stop as quickly as you can.
- Remember: Many vehicles are required to stop at all rail crossings.
- If you're on a motorcycle or bike, be sure to cross tracks at a 90 degree angle - and follow all the above safety rules as well.
If you're a kid...
- Don't ever walk, play, skate or ride your bike on or around light rail tracks.
- Never walk in a construction area.
- Make sure that everyone in your family knows all these safety rules.
- Be safe and help others to be safe around DART light rail.
If you have children...
- Talk to them about light rail - teach them the importance of crossing the tracks safely - "Stop, look and listen" is an important message for them to understand.
- Teach them about electricity and that playing near light rail overhead wires, especially flying a kite, is very dangerous.
- Hold children's hands when crossing the street.
- Take a field trip, go exploring, schedule a time to show your children light rail tracks and the areas where it is safe to be and those where it is not safe.
When you're near overhead power lines...
- Always keep things like kites and ladders away from the overhead lines - and never, ever touch a power line that is down.