Our Children are about to start their Summer School Holidays, and it is a lovely time to play outside.
However, there are dangers which all of us need to be reminded about, including dangers within Hollingbourne, and because of this Network Rail have launched an appeal for safety on lines, by highlighting the risks of trespassing upon railways and putting the lives of ourselves and others in jeopardy.
According to Kent Live News, Network Rail has released shocking CCTV footage showing reckless behavior and near misses at level crossings. Several Kent hotspots for near misses at certain level crossings have been named. CCTV footage provided by Network Rail shows clips of terrifying near misses, as pedestrians take their lives into their own hands. Some were spotted jumping over barriers at the level crossing, despite warnings that a train was oncoming. Video shows people risking their lives at level crossings as Kent’s most dangerous spot named – Kent Live
Network Rail state that pedestrians have been asked to be aware of their surroundings, not using phones or listening to music while approaching level crossings. Misuse has decreased by 15% since last year, but near misses increased by 31% says National Rail. Around 258 misuse incidents and 33 near misses were recorded in the last year across the Kent route.
Across the Southern region trains can travel as fast as 140mph and are largely powered by the third rail which carries more than enough electricity to kill or seriously injure and is always on.
A British Transport Police (BTP) spokesperson said: “Unfortunately we have seen too many times the tragic and life changing consequences of people ignoring the warnings of danger when being near the railway. Sadly some children think the rail tracks look like tempting places to play and don’t consider just how dangerous the tracks can be.
“BTP work with Network Rail to educate children and students at school of the dangers being near tracks and share some of the devastating real life stories from You vs Train such as Harrison’s Story. Passengers and the public continue to be our eyes and ears and they can help us by reporting any concerns or incidents by texting us on 61016 or 0800 405040.”
Do you still need to convinced of the dangers of playing / trespassing upon the railway tracks? Don’t delay and click on the button below to watch the You Vs Train videos, including Harrison’s Story which are upon the Network Rail website. The videos are very difficult to watch, but they will certainly help save lives.
You Vs Train