3 October 2005
CPR Police Service Promote Rail Safety in Canmore
Canmore - Canadian Pacific Railway's Police Service is sending a direct message to Canmore residents
about rail track safety by conducting a local awareness blitz.
"Canadian Pacific Railway police are commitment to raising awareness about the dangers of using the tracks as a pathway or when
not crossing at designated crossings. We're trying to create a safer environment for everybody and prevent a tragic situation from
occurring," said CPR Police Service Community Awareness Constable, Gordie Wharf.
Constable Wharf said the goal is to educate pedestrians, including school children, to stay away from the tracks. "Being on CPR's
right-of-way is against the law and is dangerous with the a very real potential for deadly consequences." The CPR
Police Service Constable noted the local High School is assisting with this important message by making safety announcements over the
school's intercom system.
CPR supports Operation Lifesaver, which is a national public education program sponsored by the Railway Association of Canada and
Transport Canada and works in co-operation with the Canada Safety Council, provincial safety councils/leagues, railway
companies, unions, police, public and community groups. Its goal is to reduce the needless loss of life, injuries and damages caused
by highway/railway crossing collisions and train/pedestrian incidents.
According to Operation Lifesaver, 101 people were killed or seriously injured from pedestrian-train collisions in 2004
in Canada. In the first five months of 2005, there have been 58 pedestrians who died or have been seriously injured nationwide. In
Alberta, there have been five deaths or injuries so far this year. However, Constable Wharf added there are many other near misses
that go unreported. "The saying "train time is anytime" is very relevant since a train could be in the area at any
time of the day."
Residents with concerns or want to report an incident are asked to contact the CPR Police Service at:
1-800-716-9132 (24 hours) or their local police agency.
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