Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Enhances Rail Safety Awareness During Railway Safety Month

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Promotes Rail Safety Awareness

As California grapples with the highest number of rail-related fatalities in the United States, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner has launched a focused campaign to enhance public awareness of railway safety during the month of September, designated as Rail Safety Month. The initiative, in collaboration with California Operation Lifesaver (CAOL), seeks to address critical safety concerns related to highway-rail crossings and the ongoing issue of trespassing near railway tracks.

Fred Jung, chair of the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "Ensuring the safety of our communities is a top priority for Pacific Surfliner. We are committed to working with California Operation Lifesaver to raise awareness and provide essential safety information to our community in Southern California."

The LOSSAN corridor represents the second-busiest intercity rail route in the United States, servicing 41 stations and transporting nearly 4.5 million passengers annually across various travel modes, including Amtrak, Coaster, and Metrolink. Given its extensive operations, the corridor agency is continuously seeking innovative methods to educate the public about rail safety.

Safety Guidelines for Travelers

To promote safe behavior near railway tracks, passengers are encouraged to follow basic guidelines:
1. Avoid Walking on Tracks: Never walk along the tracks, as it is both illegal and extremely hazardous.
2. Use Designated Crossings: Always cross at marked pedestrian walkways and follow all warning signals.
3. Stay Alert: Remain vigilant when near the tracks, and avoid distractions such as headphones or phone conversations that can obstruct your ability to hear approaching trains.
4. Board Safely: Wait behind the marked safety line on station platforms and hold onto handrails when boarding.
5. Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately inform Amtrak police of any suspicious behavior or items by approaching a uniformed officer or calling (800) 331-0008, texting APD11, or dialing 911.

The partnership between LOSSAN and CAOL will see the deployment of safety messages across various platforms, including social media, websites, and TV channels, aimed at educating those living and commuting near the rail corridor. This outreach campaign, running from September 1 to 30, utilizes location-based data to target communities with relevant and timely safety messages, tailored to local incidents involving trespassing and accidents.

Moreover, during this month, LOSSAN is collaborating with county officials from San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura to erect safety signs in high-traffic areas, including near schools situated close to the railway lines.

Digital Resources for Safety Education

In addition to physical awareness campaigns, Pacific Surfliner offers a range of digital resources at PacificSurfliner.com/RailSafety, featuring children’s activities, lesson plans for educators, and downloadable presentations developed by Operation Lifesaver and CAOL. These resources cater to schools and families aiming to enhance their understanding of rail safety norms and practices.

In conclusion, Rail Safety Month serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of adhering to safety measures around railway infrastructures. The joint efforts of Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and California Operation Lifesaver are set to create a safer environment for all, mitigating the risks associated with railways and promoting public awareness that can lead to a reduction in rail-related incidents in California’s communities.

For additional information on Rail Safety Month, visit:

*According to CAOL and the Federal Railroad Administration.