Network Rail Runs School Safety Sessions

As Network Rail gears up to energise 36 kilometers of new overhead electric wires between Kettering and Wigston, the organisation is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of local children. With trains in the area reaching speeds of up to 125 mph—equivalent to the length of 20 football pitches required to stop in an emergency—Network Rail is emphasising the crucial message that the railway is not a playground.

_{Safety Campaign Details}

Network Rail has initiated a series of school safety sessions aimed at educating children about the dangers associated with railway trespassing. The campaign includes:

• Educational Visits: Network Rail representatives have visited three local schools to deliver safety sessions. These sessions are designed to inform students about the risks of playing near or on railway tracks and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.
• Awareness of Speed and Stopping Distances: With trains traveling at high speeds, it's vital for children to understand that even emergency braking cannot prevent accidents instantly. The message underscores that trains take an extensive distance to stop, emphasising the need for vigilance and caution around railways.
• Interactive Learning: The safety sessions include interactive elements to engage children effectively. This approach aims to make the safety message memorable and to instill a sense of responsibility regarding railway safety.

_{Importance of the Safety Message}

The introduction of new 25,000-volt electric wires adds another layer of potential danger for those who might venture onto railway tracks. Network Rail’s safety campaign is a crucial step in mitigating risks by:

• Reducing Trespassing Incidents: By raising awareness among young students, Network Rail hopes to decrease the number of trespassing incidents and related accidents.
• Promoting Long-Term Safety Habits: Educating children at a young age about railway safety can contribute to long-term behavioral changes and a broader understanding of the dangers associated with railway tracks.
• Community Engagement: The safety sessions foster a sense of community responsibility and encourage students to share the safety message with their families and peers.

Network Rail’s commitment to running these safety sessions highlights the importance of proactive measures in ensuring railway safety, particularly as new infrastructure is introduced.