Safety Reminder

Now is a good time to remind you of the importance of safety when photographing or seeing trains; not only those hauled by steam locomotives! It is imperative that you stand back from platform edges and behind lineside fences; even when at an authorised public foot-crossing and level-crossing to avoid debris and steam or being hit by the train itself. When taking photos or video, be mindful of your surroundings, making sure you're standing where legally allowed! Have someone "spot" you while you're looking through your camera's viewfinder. What you don't see could kill you.

Remember:

• Trains can't stop quickly to avoid people or vehicles on the tracks.
• Railway tracks, bridges, yards and right-of-way are private property – please do not trespass.
• Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive – ALWAYS expect a train and assume tracks are active.
• Look both ways when approaching railway crossings and stop for trains. A train's distance from you -- and its speed -- can be deceiving.
• Look twice at crossings with multiple tracks. Two tracks may mean two trains, so make sure all tracks are clear before crossing each rail line.
• Avoid distractions including loud music, texting and talking on mobile phones. Look up and listen for train whistle or horns.

You Are Our Safety Ambassadors

As a Railway enthusiast, you're more aware of the dangers associated with train operations than your typical ordinary member of the public. Because of your knowledge, we're asking you to have the courage to tell someone if what they're doing is unsafe and against the law – for example standing on or too close to the tracks, running along the ballast, leaving trip hazards in walkways or climbing on equipment.

You can help us and continued steam on the mainline by spreading a message of safety or by reporting unsafe behavior to any member of Railway staff or British Transport Police. When it comes to safety, we're all on watch to make sure we all go home safe to our families.

Remember that trespass on the railway is a criminal offence