The Broward MPO, in collaboration with the cities of Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Hallandale Beach, has launched a new rail safety campaign, “Don’t Risk It.” The campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of reckless behavior around trains and railroad crossings and reduce the rising accident rates in the region.
According to Operation Lifesaver, Inc. , the nonprofit organization and nationally recognized leader of rail safety education, current Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) statistics report that 2,188 highway-rail grade crossing collisions occurred in 2022. There were 274 crossing fatalities and 777 crossing injuries in 2022 across the U.S. Florida ranks #4 out of the top 25 states on that list with 117 collisions, 21 deaths and 51 injuries reported.
The Broward MPO’s “Don’t Risk It” campaign features a range of roadway signage, educational materials, social media posts and flyers. Television spots and ads will also convey the message and remind residents and visitors to remain alert around trains and railroad crossings. By taking simple precautions, such as obeying warning signals and avoiding distractions, tragic accidents can be prevented.
Learn more, here:
- https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2023/05/22/dont-risk-it-worried-about-train-deaths-cities-set-up-new-rail-safety-campaign/
- https://www.newpelican.com/articles/trying-to-beat-the-train-dont-risk-it/
- https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/broward-cities-county-planning-agency-launch-campaign-to-reduce-train-related-deaths/
- https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/dont-risk-it-broward-leaders-hope-safety-initiative-will-reduce-train-accidents/3039098/
- https://lmgfl.com/broward-metropolitan-planning-organization-launches-rail-safety-campaign/