Saskatchewan Science Centre Promotes Train Safety Awareness

The Saskatchewan Science Centre is enhancing public understanding of train and railway safety through a special documentary screening event. On the morning of March 14, 2024, dozens of attendees filled the Kramer IMAX theatre to watch “Train Time,” a film that explores the intricate operations of modern trains.

Ryan Holota, Chief Operating Officer of the Saskatchewan Science Centre, highlighted the significant advancements in train technology that often go unnoticed. “When people look at a train, they don’t realize that things have changed a lot,” he stated. Holota pointed out that trains are now recognized as one of the most fuel-efficient modes of goods transportation across North America, equipped with features such as satellite tracking and adaptive suspensions that enhance safety and efficiency.

The documentary is part of a week-long initiative coinciding with Rail Safety Week in Canada, aiming to raise awareness about the vital role railways play in everyday life and the economy. Hank Neumiller, a sergeant with the CN Police Service in Melville, emphasized the essential connection between railways and the products in homes, stating, “Everything in a person’s house was on a train at some point.”

Emphasizing Education and Safety

The screenings provide not only entertainment but also critical insights into the operations of freight trains and the crews that manage them. The event seeks to educate attendees on railway safety, especially given the alarming statistics from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, which reported 896 railway-related accidents in 2023, resulting in 69 fatalities.

The importance of education in promoting railway safety was echoed by Constable Brad Bidulkm from Canadian Pacific Kansas Limited. He highlighted that while enforcement is important, education remains paramount. “We’re bringing that to the public through every demographic, whether you’re walking, riding a bike, or driving a truck,” he said, underlining the need for widespread awareness.

To aid public safety, the initiative provides guidance from Operation Lifesaver, a Canadian railway safety program. Recommendations include maintaining a safe distance from railway tracks, heeding signage, and being vigilant for oncoming trains. If individuals encounter any railway incidents, they are encouraged to contact the CN emergency line at 1-800-465-9239.

Train safety is not just a concern for railway workers but a matter that affects everyone. As the Saskatchewan Science Centre continues to host these screenings, the hope is to foster a deeper understanding and respect for the railways that are integral to daily life and the economy.