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Friday 4 Jul 2014

Network Rail to feature in first-ever public level crossing rescue scenario

Region & Route:

Network Rail is taking part in a live demonstration showing the devastating impact of a level crossing vehicle accident and what is involved in rescuing those involved, at Rescue Day 2014.

Organised by Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, 7 Lakes Country Park, Humberside Police and other organisations, Rescue Day 2014 is a public event which allows visitors to witness, first-hand, major emergency services in action.

One of the main demonstrations this year is based on a re-enactment of a level crossing incident, where a train has collided with a car towing a caravan.

It is thought to be the first public demonstration of its kind, acted out away from the railway. A realistic level crossing scenario – which includes 200 tonnes of ballast (stones that support the track), 100 rail sleepers and 150m of rail track – has been installed at the Rescue Day site thanks to support from VolkerRail, Tata Steel, Humberside Fire and Rescue and the owner of 7 Lakes Country Park.

A train has been delivered by Heanor Haulage and a level crossing, with a road crossing the tracks, has been installed by teams from Network Rail and VolkerRail. The railway team has also installed a pedestrian level crossing to help demonstrate to visitors how vital safety is at crossings.

Vicki Beadle, community safety manager at Network Rail, said: “We are very pleased to support this event and to show people what amazing jobs our staff, and the emergency services, do in extraordinary circumstances.

“Promoting safety on the railway and especially at level crossings is a key focus for Network Rail. Events like this are a fantastic way to get that safety message across as, unfortunately, people continue to take risks when crossing the railway.

“We’re looking forward to meeting as many people as possible at the event and encouraging them to stay safe near the tracks.”

Stuart Webster-Spriggs, health, safety, quality and environment director for VolkerRail, said: “Safety is core to VolkerRail’s business and operations and we are privileged to be given the opportunity to be involved with this event; to bring the safety message out of the industry and over to those who interact with the railways on a day-to-day basis, who may not be aware of the dangers it poses.

“This is the perfect opportunity for VolkerRail to interface with members of the public and to help them understand the work that the emergency services do.”

Now in its seventh year, Rescue Day has grown to become the largest event of its kind in the world. As well as showcasing the various organisations’ great work, the event is also to highlight how important safety is when on water, road or around fire and on the railway.

This year, it is taking place on Saturday, 12 July at 7 Lakes Country Park in Crowle (North Lincolnshire). For more information about Rescue Day 2014, including ticket prices and travel information, visit the Rescue Day website.