Police supports Rail Safety Week

Be patient, stay focused and stay alive.

Police is pleased to support Rail Safety Week, joining KiwiRail, TrackSafe and the New Zealand Transport Agency in partnering with transport authorities to raise awareness, on the theme ‘Expect Trains’.

The campaign aims to make motorists and pedestrians aware that at level crossings they should expect trains at any time and from either direction.

Already in 2015 there have been six deaths on railway tracks in New Zealand – including one last week at the Walters Road pedestrian level crossing at Takanini, in Counties Manukau District.

District Road Policing Manager Inspector Alison Brand visited the Walters Road crossing to mark the beginning of Rail Safety Week, which was launched nationally by Transport Minister Simon Bridges in Wellington.

She urges motorists and pedestrians to be patient at crossings and to ensure they are not distracted – especially with faster, quieter electric trains now in service across Auckland.

“Remove any distractions when approaching a pedestrian or vehicle crossing – such as headphones, and no talking on cellphones – and be aware of your environment,” she says. “Always look for the train – and then the second train. 

“Show patience – if the alarm bells or lights are going, don’t try to beat the barrier. It’s not worth the risk just to get to where you’re going ten seconds sooner.”

She says breaking the law at crossings could result in a $150 on-the-spot infringement notice – “but that’s not our preference. It’s more important that people realise it could cost them their lives.”

Click here to see a One News interview with Alison and here for more on Rail Safety Week.