See Tracks? Think Train! Week Is Here

9/22/2026

From September 21-27, Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is leading the 10th year of the “See Tracks? Think Train” rail safety awareness campaign. Throughout the week, public transportation and passenger rail agencies are highlighting the importance of making safe choices around tracks and trains.

OLI reports that more than 2,300 people across the U.S. were injured or killed in railroad crossing collisions or trespassing incidents in 2025. Rachel Maleh, OLI executive director said, “We can all do something to help stop track tragedies, and it starts with knowing the facts, recognizing the signs, and making good decisions.”

The 2026 campaign features daily themes tailored to specific audiences. OLI welcomes agencies to download and share rail safety messaging from billboards to flyers to social media posts. Below are examples of how government and public transportation agencies are participating in the awareness campaign.

Federal Transit Administration

FTA launched new video messages to highlight simple, life-saving steps rail transit riders can take to improve safety across transit networks. FTA recommends taking OLI’s transit safety pledge and participating in “Red Out for Rail Safety” day on September 25 by wearing red and sharing a personal rail safety message on social media using #RedOutForRailSafety and #STOPTrackTragedies.

Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC)

The ARRC is hosting an open house in Fairbanks on September 26. In addition to meeting railroad employees, the event provides an opportunity for the public to learn more about railroad equipment and safety.

ARRC External Affairs Director Meghan Clemens said, “We hope that everyone who comes to the open house will take a few moments to speak with our staff and learn how they can be safe around railroad tracks and rail equipment. We want all of our guests to leave with great memories and a better understanding of railroad safety, like crossing only at marked crossings and remembering that it can take a train as much as a mile to stop.”

Three people pose at a table with Operation Lifesaver Alaska materials.

Amtrak

Amtrak is partnering with OLI to host Operation Clear Track on September 22. During the outreach event, hundreds of law enforcement agencies and first responders will be stationed at railroad grade crossings across the U.S. to share rail safety messaging and enforce crossing and trespassing laws.

Amtrak Interim Chief of Police James Cook said, “Last year we distributed over 70,000 rail safety education cards across the country, and we’re pleased to continue and expand upon that effort this year.”

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS)

In North Carolina, CATS has planned daily education and outreach, including safety tips from CATS staff, Operation Clear Track activities with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, a live broadcast from a rail station, distribution of safety and mental health resources along the Blue Line, and trespass-prevention events. “Rail safety isn’t just about big moments, it’s about the small, safe choices our community makes every day,” said Brent Cagle, CATS interim CEO.

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)

During “See Track, Think Train” week, MBTA and its commuter rail operations and maintenance partner Keolis will have events and safety messaging at stations, railroad crossings, aboard trains, and throughout communities across the system.

Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng said, “Safety starts with awareness, so if you see tracks, stay alert, look out for one another, and it’s worth repeating that you should always assume a train is coming from either direction, and never walk along the tracks or cross the tracks when the lights are flashing and the gates are down. See Track, Think Train: it’s a simple message that saves lives.”

MBTA train with See Tracks? Think Train messaging.

Regional Transportation District (RTD)

In and around Denver, CO, RTD employees will be sharing information with the public on how best to stay safe around trains, tracks, and crossings. RTD reports that since 2021, 822 rail-related accidents have been reported in Colorado. This underscores the importance of staying aware and making safe choices around rail infrastructure. The agency offers tips for rail safety and a video available in two languages.

RTD staff at a table with materials outside a station.

TriMet

Serving the Portland, OR, region, TriMet released a video of near misses to remind everyone that making safe choices around tracks is an everyday responsibility. “Even a slow-moving train, traveling just 15 miles per hour, requires about 50 feet to stop,” the agency posted. While drivers are trained to anticipate the unexpected and make quick decisions, large heavy trains can’t stop as quickly as a vehicle. More than 60 percent of collisions happen at crossings equipped with lights, gates, or both—a reminder that warning equipment only works when people follow it.

Utah Transit Authority (UTA)

UTA is partnering with Utah Operation Lifesaver, Utah DOT, Utah Highway Patrol, and Utah Railway for Utah Rail Safety Week under the theme “Every Sign Tells a Story.” Activities include Operation Clear Track outreach at crossings statewide, a safety event at Salt Lake Central Station, and rail safety education at high school football games.

“Too often we see moments of carelessness around rail crossings or tracks…following posted signs and signals, and exercising caution could save your life,” said Travis King, director of safety and security at UTA.

APTA offers a wealth of safety and security resources to help transit agencies maintain and improve employee and passenger safety and security. Learn more at www.apta.com/industry-issues/safety-security.