Help keep railroads safe. It is a matter of life and death.
Oceanside, CA – The North County Transit – San Diego Railroad (NCTD) Board of Directors adopted a proclamation at its July 17, 2025, Board Meeting recognizing September as Rail Safety Month. In doing so, NCTD affirms its commitment to rail safety and the prevention of tragedies on and near the tracks.
During Rail Safety Month, NCTD reminds pedestrians and motorists to prevent a needless tragedy, heed the warning signals, and always remember – when you see tracks, think train.
According to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and California Operation Lifesaver, in 2024, there were 2,253 rail incidents in California. The state ranked first in the nation for trespassing casualties resulting in 182 confirmed deaths. All of these incidents could have been avoided by following federal and state rail safety laws prohibiting trespassing on railroad right-of-way.
NCTD is working with California Operation Lifesaver, the FRA, the California Department of Transportation, the California Public Utilities Commission, and other passenger and freight railroads to improve railroad safety and educate the public of the dangers of breaking federal and state law and disobeying signs and signals around railroad property.
NCTD holds safety as one if its core values in the provision and operation of public transit services throughout its service area. Through public outreach, NCTD will continue to promote safety awareness and education near and at its rail grade crossings and railroad right-of-way to members of the communities it serves.
Monday, September 8, 2025
Palomar College | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Escondido Transit Center | 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Carlsbad Village Station | 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Oceanside Transit Center | 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Taylor Street | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Learn, share, and implement safe rail practices to ensure an accident-free transit system. And always follow these Rail Rules:
• Be Alert – it’s difficult to judge train distance and speed
• Look Both Ways – trains may come from either direction at any time
• Listen – For train horns and bells
• Don’t use cell phones and Do remove ear buds.
Remember, tracks are for trains. For more information about rail safety, visit GoNCTD.com/Safety.
