Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Environmental Conservation (EnCon) Police and Operation Lifesaver, the nonprofit railroad safety organization, are reminding those who enjoy outdoor recreation areas to stay away from the railroad tracks. Connecticut State Law prohibits anyone without consent of the railroad company from entering and remaining on railroad right-of-way.
“Unauthorized use of railroad tracks is both dangerous and illegal,” said Colonel Kyle Overturf, director of DEEP’s EnCon Police. “That means you don’t fish or hunt from the trestles or tracks, or use them as an access or short cut. Whether you are fishing or bird watching keep a safe distance away from the railroad tracks.”
“Every year, Connecticut experiences injuries and fatalities associated with individuals trespassing on railroad rights-of-way,” said James Peay, the state director of Operation Lifesaver. “We think the way to help prevent these needless deaths and injuries education, education and more education about what trains can and cannot do.”
“Trains can’t swerve or stop quickly, environmental conditions can muffle their sounds, and they can approach without your knowledge. Flying debris and banding that holds on the flat cars can become unsecured and strike anyone within the right-of-way.”
For more information on fishing, hunting and boating safety, visit ct.gov/deep/or call 1-800 842-4357. For more information on railroad safety, or a complimentary presentation for any group Visit Connecticut Operation Lifesaver at: ct.gov/dot/oplife or call 860-594-2368.