It’s rail safety week in Saskatchewan and the Weyburn Police Service are taking the opportunity to remind drivers of local traffic laws surrounding crossing safety.
Many people are not aware that the City of Weyburn Bylaw covers rail crossings, including prohibiting all vehicles from parking within 15 metres of a railway track. This protects visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and train crews and ensures emergency responders have unobstructed access.
Deputy Chief Shane St. John says many rail safety rules are mostly a concern at rural rail crossings, as the problematic rail crossings within town have now been closed off.
“Don't park within 15 metres of railway. It's pretty clear. Not many places now in Weyburn you can do that. In the past we did have other rail crossings that were dangerous, and you needed those sight lines. They're all controlled, the ones going through Weyburn, which is very good. They’re a lot safer.”
He recalls a particularly dangerous crossing on Queen Street that was closed earlier this year.
“I've seen video. It was unbelievable, people swore they stopped and they didn't. I've seen trains hit semis. Seeing that video is just unbelievable and it happened a lot. I'm so glad that one's closed down. That was such a dangerous crossing.”
While crossings within city limits are controlled, St. John highlights a common issue they see even at controlled crossings – vehicles driving around crossing arms.
“When the arms are down, do not go around the arms. Do not try to beat the arms. That's a major thing in town. We've seen that before. You will be charged. There are cameras on the trains that pick up those vehicles, and that's so dangerous.”
Regarding the uncontrolled crossings surrounding the city, St. John urges drivers to remain diligent in paying attention and driving safely, reminding that many train pass through the area every day.
“At uncontrolled rail crossings, make sure you're stopping and looking to see if there's stop signs. We have had some fatalities in the past in those areas, unfortunately. So just always be paying attention.”
Drivers are reminded to never stop on the tracks, always obey warning signals, and give trains the space they need. The WPS stresses that trains cannot stop quickly, and following the rules helps keep the community safe.