Rail Safety Week at MDOT MTA

In recognition of National Transit Safety Thursday, members of the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration Police Force and Safety Department will meet with customers Thursday (9/28) to share information on how to make their rail travel safer.

MDOT MTA personnel will be at the Owings Mills Metro Station from 7-9 am to distribute safety brochures and talk with riders about safety while using public transit – with a focus on rail safety.

“Getting out and talking to customers is a great way to spread the word on how to make rail travel safer for all of our customers,” said Gerald Lynott Jr., MDOT MTA’s deputy chief of emergency preparedness.

National Transit Safety Thursday is part of the first annual U.S. Rail Safety Week (September 24-30), an effort led by Operation Lifesaver, Inc. , the national rail safety education organization working in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation, law enforcement agencies and other organizations.

Federal government statistics show that about every three hours in the U.S., a train hits a vehicle or person. To raise awareness of the need for caution near tracks and trains, MDOT MTA wants all passengers to keep a few safety tips in mind:

1. Always stand behind the yellow strip while waiting for the train.
2. Once aboard the train, move to the center of the car.
3. When standing, always hold onto the railing while the train is in motion.
4. Don’t lean on the train doors.
5. Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

For more information, visit mta.maryland.gov or call 410-539-5000.