Always expect a train

Stay alert and aware near all railroad tracks and trains.

Be Track SMART by following these safety tips

Click here to watch the video in Spanish.

Motorists

Never stop your car on the railroad tracks.
Approach all crossings carefully, and be prepared to stop behind the crossing gates when the crossing signals are activated.
Flashing lights and bells at crossings will activate before the gate arm comes down to give motorists enough time to safely clear the intersection.
Don’t risk it. Never cross the tracks until you are sure you have enough room to make it safely through to the other side.

Bicyclists

Crossing railroad tracks on a bicycle requires extra caution and attention. Don’t be distracted by cell phones or headphones.
Bicycle wheels can get caught between the rail and roadway: Cross at a 90-degree angle. If that is not possible, walk, don’t ride, across the tracks.
Designated railroad crossings are the only safe and legal place to cross the tracks.
Do not ride on or adjacent to the tracks.

Pedestrians

Only cross the tracks at designated railroad crossings.
Always wait for the bells and lights to stop, and the gate to rise before crossing the tracks.
Stay alert around trains and tracks. Don’t be distracted by cell phones or headphones.
Never walk on or along the railroad tracks, it is dangerous and illegal.

Think Safety First At Stations and Onboard Trains

Always be alert and aware near station platforms.

Enjoy your ride by following these tips

Stay safe at station platforms

Always be alert and aware at station platforms.
Stay behind the yellow strip on the platform before boarding and after exiting the train.
Do not ride your bike, scooter, roller blades, or skates on the station platform.
Allow passengers to exit the train before you board.
Mind the gap between the platform and the train when boarding and exiting.
If you have young children, hold their hands when boarding and exiting the train.

Stay safe on board trains

Find your spot quickly after boarding.
Place belongings in the overhead storage. Properly secure bicycles in designated areas on the train.
Always give seating priority to seniors and passengers with disabilities.
When on board, use caution when walking between train cars.
Conductors are available to assist you. Contact a train conductor immediately if you have a safety or security concern. Your safety is their top priority.

Rail Safety Awareness

Let us connect with you.

We are focused on promoting rail safety awareness. Invite us to your community event, your school or organization, or to provide a platform safety briefing.

Rail Safety Education

SMART has an extensive rail education program that includes Operation Lifesaver presentations to students at school and community organizations.

Click for details

Platform Safety Briefings

The SMART Outreach Team provides trip planning assistance for large groups that includes a safety briefing at the station. Contact us to request a platform briefing.

Safety Outreach

SMART participates in community events throughout the year as part of our rail safety awareness effort. Contact us to invite us to your community event.

Rail Safety Quiz

Safety Outreach

Test your rail safety knowledge with our quick and fun interactive quiz.

Take the quiz