What to Do When You See an Obstruction on Railroad Tracks

Navigating North Dakota's Railroad Safety: What You Need to Know

When you’re cruising down a North Dakota highway, life can feel pretty sweet. The open road, the scenic views, and the pure freedom. But hold your horses—what if you run into an obstacle on the railroad tracks? It’s a terrifying thought, yet it’s essential to be prepared. So, what's the best course of action in such a situation?

Obstruction on the Railroad Tracks—What Should You Do?

Let's set the stage: You’re driving along, enjoying the wide-open spaces, when suddenly something catches your eye. A box, perhaps, or an unexpected heap of debris is sitting directly on the tracks. What next?

Now, here’s the important part. The first thing to do is call the Emergency Notification System (ENS) number that’s posted at the crossing. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s your best bet for making sure everyone stays safe. Here’s the deal: this system is specifically designed to alert authorities and notify the railway company about potential hazards. They have the resources and expertise to deal with it swiftly and effectively. So, take a moment, grab your phone, and dial that number!

Why Not Try to Remove the Obstruction?

You might be thinking, “Well, can’t I just hop out of my car and move it?” And while it sounds tempting, trust me when I say that’s a risky move. Picture this—what if that obstruction is bigger or heavier than you expect? Or worse, what if a train comes rolling down the tracks while you’re wrestling with it? It’s not worth the danger. Immediate action is to call for help; leave the heavy lifting to the pros who know what they’re doing.

Ignoring the Obstruction? Not a Chance!

Now, I know some might think that ignoring the obstruction and plowing ahead could be an option. Definitely not! Dismissing a roadblock on the tracks is like ignoring a flashing red light when you’re driving—it just doesn’t make sense! That crash could lead to horrendous consequences, including severe injuries or worse. You wouldn’t take those kinds of chances with your life or the lives of others, right?

Wait for a Train? Not the Smartest Move

Another thought you might have is to just wait for a train to show up and resolve the situation naturally. Here’s the thing: that’s about as effective as waiting for your popcorn to pop without putting it in the microwave first. It’s not only ineffective, but it’s also downright dangerous. Trains can arrive at lightning speed and their size and weight mean they have almost no stopping power. Waiting isn’t an option when lives could be at stake.

Understanding the ENS: Your Lifeline

The Emergency Notification System number is more than a set of digits on a sign; it’s your lifeline. When you call it, you’re not just reporting an obstacle; you’re activating a safety procedure that can save lives. Trained personnel are alerted, and they know exactly what to do. They're the heroes that come to your aid in scenarios where you’d be left fumbling, unsure of what to do.

Let’s Talk Rail Safety: More Than Just Obstacles

You might think this is all just about obstructions on the tracks, but rail safety encompasses a broader picture. Understanding the signs, signals, and rules regarding railroad crossings is fundamental for everyone. You may have seen those big, red signals flash at a crossing, urging you to stop; they're not just for decoration. When those lights are flashing, you need to hit the brakes with no questions asked. Always assume a train is near when you encounter these warnings, no matter how confident or experienced you might be.

Keeping Our Roads Safe

It’s not just about you, either. Your actions can help keep not only yourself safe but also the passengers in your vehicle and other road users. We all share the road and the railway tracks. It's a collective responsibility we have to ensure that safety measures are adhered to. Keeping your eyes peeled for obstructions, understanding railroad signals, and knowing what to do when faced with emergencies are all key components of road safety.

Wrapping It Up: A Final Thought

So, next time you find yourself driving near railroad tracks, remember to keep your guard up. If you ever come across an obstruction, don’t panic! Just reach for your phone, call the Emergency Notification System, and let someone who is trained handle it. You’re not just protecting yourself; you’re ensuring the safety of others too.

The freedom of the open road is exhilarating, but there are rules and responsibilities that come with it. Let’s navigate the journey together—safely and smartly!