Saskatchewan Science Centre Promotes Train Safety Awareness

The Saskatchewan Science Centre is actively raising awareness about railway safety through special documentary screenings and educational initiatives. On the morning of September 28, 2023, the centre hosted a showing of the documentary titled Train Time in the Kramer IMAX theatre, drawing an audience eager to learn about the intricacies of train operations and safety.

Ryan Holota, the chief operating officer of the Saskatchewan Science Centre, emphasized the advancements in train technology that many people may overlook. “When people look at a train, they don’t realize that things have changed a lot,” Holota stated. He highlighted the fuel efficiency of trains, noting that they remain one of the most environmentally friendly methods of transporting goods across North America. Modern trains incorporate satellite and GPS tracking, as well as adaptive suspensions and traction control, making them significantly more advanced than many realize.

Throughout the week, special screenings of Train Time have provided audiences with a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of freight trains and the vital role they play in the North American economy. Hank Neumiller, a sergeant with the CN Police Service in Melville, explained the connection between railways and everyday life. “Everything in a person’s house was on a train at some point, so making that connection between the railway and daily life is huge,” he said.

Rail Safety Week Highlights Critical Education

The documentary screening coincided with Rail Safety Week in Canada, which aims to remind the public of the importance of safety around trains. Constable Brad Bidulkm from Canadian Pacific Kansas Limited underscored the significance of education in enhancing railway safety. “Enforcement is another aspect, but education is the most important aspect for railway safety,” he remarked. Bidulkm stressed the need to reach every demographic, whether they are pedestrians, cyclists, or drivers, to promote awareness about rail safety.

According to statistics from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, there were 896 railway-related accidents reported last year, which included 69 fatalities. This data underscores the urgency of rail safety education.

Operation Lifesaver, a Canadian railway safety initiative, provides essential tips for the public. These include maintaining a safe distance from railway tracks, paying attention to signage, and taking extra precautions to confirm that no trains are approaching. In the event of witnessing an incident on the railway, individuals are urged to contact the CN emergency line at 1-800-465-9239.

The efforts of the Saskatchewan Science Centre, along with the support of local law enforcement and safety organizations, aim to foster a safer environment around railways, ensuring that communities understand the importance of train safety in their daily lives.