- Light-rail transit is safe – as long as everyone obeys warning signs and complies with barriers.
- It's not only unsafe but against the law to walk along light-rail tracks or to trespass on rail bridges or in tunnels.
- Pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists must cross only at designated crossings. Tracks at these intersections are embedded in the ground, level with the street, for safer crossing.
> Watch the Operation Lifesaver video below about the importance of being aware around transit vehicles or click here to view in a new window
Safety near rail stations
- Trains can come on any track, at any time, from either direction. Never assume you know when and where to expect a train.
- Never try to beat a train through a crossing – it takes the length of two football fields for a train to stop.
- Safety only takes a second – light-rail trains move faster than freight trains. If gate arms are going down, stop. The train will clear the intersection in a few seconds.
- Slow down and be alert near rail stations. Watch for pedestrians, trains, buses and cars.
Safety on the station platform
- Turn down your mobile device near the platform and rail crossings.
- While waiting for the train, always stand behind the yellow line on the platform.
- Stand back until the train stops. Be careful of trains leaving the station.
- Keep children together and away from the tracks until the train stops completely.
- Cross tracks only at the ends of the platform.
- Running or horseplay on the platform is dangerous – especially near moving trains.
- Skateboarding, rollerblading and riding bikes on platforms is not permitted.
- Wait for other passengers to exit the train before you board.
- Don't stick arms or legs in the doors to prevent them from closing; just relax and wait for the next train, it's just a few minutes away.
Safety on the train
- Please surrender your seat to elderly customers or those with disabilities, if needed.
- While riding, please remain seated. If standing, hold onto the rails in case of sudden stops.
- Make sure children stay near you while riding.
- Keep children under control while riding. Running or horseplay on the train can be dangerous.
- Keep suitcases and backpacks out of others’ way – each train has luggage racks.
- Secure bikes in racks.
Listen up!
Unlike freight trains, you might not hear a light-rail train approaching. Pay attention near the tracks.
- Listen for train horns and warning bells.
- The ends of a light-rail train are identical. Red taillights mean a train is moving away from you.
- Look both ways before crossing the tracks by car, bike or on foot.
Tracks are for trains
Tracks aren’t a place to explore. Stay away to stay safe.
- Never walk on tracks and stay away from track switches, which can move at any time.
- Stay away from high-voltage overhead wires that power the trains. Don’t touch them with kites, models – anything.
- Cross tracks only in designated areas.
> Bus safety
> Northstar safety
> Security on transit
> Transit police
> Talking to kids about trains
> Facts about light rail