Caltrain Promotes Rail Safety Enforcement

By

September 17, 2009

Just as education is a key component of Caltrain’s “Don’t Short Life” rail safety program, so is enforcement.

Whenever a vehicle or pedestrian collision occurs along Caltrain’s rail line, law enforcement officers respond. Being familiar with railroad operations and the conditions at rail grade crossings is important for law enforcement officers. Caltrain’s police force, comprised of San Mateo County Sheriff’s officers, is responsible for policing Caltrain property, including stations, parking lots and railroad right of way.

The Transit Police developed the High-Intensity Strategic Enforcement Program to target locations where people may engage in unsafe behavior, such as trespassing along the rail line and walking around lowered gates at stations or grade crossings.

Transit Police have given out 500 citations this year as a result of this program.

Transit Police deputies also have received Crisis Intervention Training, which educates deputies to recognize people who may be a threat to themselves or others in the vicinity of Caltrain’s railroad. As a result of this training, Transit Police have intervened resulting in 13 people being removed from the right of way this year and referred to treatment.

Since Caltrain acquired the rail right of way along the Peninsula in the 1990s, safety has been a top priority. This month, Caltrain is observing Railroad Safety Month in conjunction with Operation Lifesaver, an internationally renowned program promoting rail safety.

Caltrain is committed to its role as a safety advocate and will continue to work to increase public awareness and end tragic collisions, fatalities and injuries at grade crossings and on the right of way.

Transit Watch: Anyone who needs to report an incident or suspicious activity along the Caltrain rail line can call the Transit Police at 1.877.SAF.RAIL (1.877.723.7245).

Members of the public who would like rail safety tips can visit www.caltrain.com and click on the Rail Safety Month button.