When I was around 10 years old, I had a terrifying experience that sticks with me even today. One day, while hanging out with friends, my shoe got stuck in the train tracks near my house. As I was trying to keep it cool, my foot wedged into the thick sole of my sneaker, and panic started to set in. My friends were laughing as they tried to help me free my shoe, but all I could think about was a train barreling down the tracks. In a moment of desperation, I slipped my foot out of the shoe, and we managed to pull it free just in time—only about ten minutes later did a train roar past.
Living near those tracks, I still see people strolling along or posing for family photos, and it sends shivers down my spine. As a parent of three teens who love to bike and skate with their friends, I constantly remind them to steer clear of the tracks. They often dismiss my warnings as overprotective nagging, but I share my own story to drive the point home, especially since we live just a half mile from those dangerous rails.
You might think you can hear a train coming and make a quick escape, but that’s not always the case. Just last weekend, a 17-year-old in Troutdale, Oregon, lost his life after being struck by a train while taking senior photos. He wasn’t alone; a photographer was with him, and it’s unclear why he failed to get out of the way. Many areas around train tracks are fenced off with no trespassing signs, so accessing them takes some effort.
It’s alarming how often these tragedies occur. Just days before the incident in Troutdale, a man in Bellevue, Ohio, was also killed by a train, reportedly while wearing earbuds. According to the Sandusky Register, police found earbuds at the scene, highlighting how distraction can lead to disaster. The Federal Railroad Administration reported over 1,000 rail trespass injuries and fatalities in 2018 alone, and since 1997, more than 7,200 pedestrians have lost their lives to trains in the United States.
We often underestimate the danger of train tracks, thinking we’ll have enough time to react. However, this assumption can lead to devastating consequences. In towns with commuter train stations, it’s essential to heed the signals and not assume you can beat the train. Rushing is a part of life, but some risks simply aren’t worth taking.
We must set a good example by respecting these rules ourselves and ensuring our kids understand the potential dangers. As they navigate cities with increasing mass transit options, it’s vital for them to be aware of their surroundings—putting their phones down can save lives.
So, let’s keep our memories and our loved ones safe: Stay off the tracks and take your pictures elsewhere. There’s absolutely no reason to put yourself or your family in harm’s way. For more insights on staying safe, check out this blog post for additional resources.
In summary, the danger of train tracks is real, and it’s crucial to educate ourselves and our loved ones about avoiding these hazards.