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Tuesday 12 Jan 2010

NETWORK RAIL ASKS BLAKEDOWN ‘WOULD IT KILL YOU TO WAIT?’

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Network Rail is targeting a level crossing hotspot at Blakedown level crossing near Kidderminster on Thursday 14 January to warn residents of the dangers of ignoring warning signs, lights and barriers at level crossings.

Terry Hawkins, community safety manager, Network Rail, said: “Jumping the gates, swerving around barriers and ignoring warning signs is sadly a sight we see all too often, and in many cases with tragic outcomes. Level crossings are safe, but if misused, they all pose very real risks. We’re driving home the message that running the risk at a level crossing is just not worth it. By trying to save a few seconds, you could end up losing your life.”

Blakedown level crossing is next to Blakedown station and is heavily used everyday. Over the past couple of years there have been a number of incidents of misuse by motorists and pedestrians.

The awareness event forms part of Network Rail’s ongoing Don’t Run the Risk campaign, which aims to educate members of the public about the dangers of level crossing misuse. It was organised by Network Rail’s dedicated community safety team, in partnership with the British Transport Police (BTP), and London Midland.

Throughout the day the team will monitor the crossing and speak to motorists and pedestrians about misuse and offer advice and information on how to stay safe on the railway. Leaflets will also be handed out that spell out the chilling truth that taking a chance at a level crossing might be the last thing you do, and pose the question: ‘Would it kill you to wait?’.

Nationally, the figure for near misses at level crossings equates to three motorists per week. In total, nine people have not been so lucky, with their vehicles smashing into trains. Seven people lost their lives at level crossings during this time. Tragically five more people have lost their lives in September, bringing the year’s total so far to 12.

Sheelagh Whittaker, head of crime and security for train operator London Midland, said: "There can be tragic consequences if level crossings are misused, so we at London Midland are very supportive of Network Rail's campaign.

"It really isn't worth running the risk of ignoring warning signs, swerving around barriers or jumping gates at level crossings - as, sadly, a small number of people do each year. So we are taking action along with Network Rail and British Transport Police to ensure level crossings are used correctly."

A spokesperson from the British Transport Police added:

"People must realise that there will only be one loser if crossings are not used in the way they were designed. The statistics for accidents at level crossings make chilling reading and almost all are caused by motorist or pedestrian misuse. British Transport Police support Network Rail to ensure all users are aware of the dangers associated with level crossings and are educated of the proper procedures and adhere to them. However, we will also have no hesitation in prosecuting any offenders who think they can take a chance.”