Canada kicks off Rail Safety Week

Canada's Minister of State (Transport), the Honourable Rob Merrifield, launched Rail Safety Week, a national campaign to promote awareness of the dangers around railway property. The events run from April 26 to May 2 in 200 municipalities across Canada and include mock collisions, interactive kiosks, Websites for kids, driver education classes for new motorists, sessions on trespassing and safety blitzes. "The government has recently invested close to $11 million to upgrade 155 high-priority rail grade crossings across Canada to help prevent rail-road collisions," said Minister Merrifield. "The dangers around railways, tracks and crossings are very serious, and can truly impact families and communities across the country. That's why our government is committed to reducing injuries and fatalities by investing in measures that will raise awareness and improve the safety of Canadians." In addition, the government provides support to Operation Lifesaver, a partnership organization co-founded by Transport Canada and the Railway Association of Canada in 1981. Operation Lifesaver organizes public awareness campaigns to help reduce the number of incidents that result in death, injury and property damage. Rail Safety Week is an annual initiative run by Operation Lifesaver and is sponsored by Transport Canada, the nation's railways and their partners, including police services, safety councils and community groups across Canada.