The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) has declared May 31 through June 6, as Train Safety Awareness Week (TSAW). During that week, volunteers from the railroad industry, as well as law enforcement personnel and emergency responders, will stage an information blitz to educate the public about the laws and rules governing activity around train tracks and grade crossings. This year, TSAW was scheduled to coincide with the 5th annual International Level Crossing Awareness Day on June 3.
The statistics are grim and chilling. Florida holds the dubious distinction of ranking 5th in the nation in trespass fatalities. In 2014, the total number of casualties was 51, with 27 of those being fatalities and 24 being injuries. Approximately every three hours, either a vehicle, pedestrian trespasser, or some form of debris is struck by a train in the United States.
During TSAW, law enforcement will be posted at grade crossings, where they will be issuing warnings and citations to drivers and pedestrians who do not adhere to the laws relating to trains and tracks. An additional effort this year will be focused on trespasser prevention, especially in areas along the corridor where trespassing has become a serious safety issue.
Partners on the TSAW project include the SFRTA, CSXT, Amtrak, Transdev, Bombardier, G4S Secure Solutions, Operation Lifesaver, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), law enforcement officials and first responders from throughout the tri-county area.
