Rail safety tips every farmer should follow to keep their families, workers, and equipment safe this summer.
With kids out of school and more activity around farms during the summer, it’s essential for farmers to stay alert around railway crossings, especially on rural properties where most crossings are passive, with no warning lights, bells or gates.
Operation Lifesaver Canada is reminding producers that the responsibility to cross safely rests with them. A few seconds of caution can save a life.
Know Your Equipment
Whether you're hauling grain, towing tanks or running wide implements, never stop or park closer than 5 metres from the nearest rail. Be aware of front-mounted buckets, spray booms or extended hitches that might reduce your safe clearance.
Look. Listen. Live.
When approaching a crossing, take off the headset, roll down the window, and listen. Trains can be surprisingly quiet. Look both ways — physically move your head to see past mirrors, cabs and machinery that may obstruct your view.
Line Up and Cross Safely
Make sure your machinery is square with the tracks and aim to cross at a 90-degree angle. This is especially important when pulling heavy wagons or tanks, as improper angles can cause tipping or hang-ups. Don’t begin crossing unless there’s enough room to fully clear the tracks on the other side.
Know the Risks — and Prepare
Low-slung or extra-wide equipment can bottom out or get stuck. Never attempt to cross without being sure the machinery can make it. When in doubt, contact the railway for help. Keep key information on hand — the name of the railway, subdivision, mileage marker and emergency contact number (usually found on a blue sign near the crossing).
Keep It Secure
When towing, double-check that hitch pins are locked in with a safety key. Rough or uneven crossings can shake loose gear, so watch your equipment carefully as you cross.
If You Get Stuck
Get out immediately and move at least 30 metres away. Then contact the railway — the emergency number is posted at the crossing — or call 911 if no signage is visible.
One Final Reminder
Winter conditions make crossings even more dangerous. Snow and ice can reduce traction or visibility, increasing the risk of sliding into the path of an oncoming train. Slow down and be cautious year-round.
For more information, visit OperationLifesaver.ca or LookListenLive.ca