MUENSTER — After a collision between a snowmobile and a train in Muenster, the Canadian National Police Service are asking snowmobilers to be cautious.
“The average weight of a train is 5.5 million kilograms, compared to a skidoo that weights 215 kilograms,” said a statement from the police service. “The weight comparison is like stepping on an empty pop can. The weight of one locomotive engine alone is 210 tons.”
The incident took place on Dec. 19 at 11:48 p.m. There were no fatalities.
CN Police said that not only does snowmobiling along the railway ballast or crossing the rails to get to the other side of the track cause damage that could have a serious impact on the safe operation of the railway, it is also illegal. Railway yards, tracks, tunnels and bridges are private property.
“For example, in Saskatchewan you could be charged $250 under the Trespass to Property Act,” the police service said.
CN Police said it is important to remember to only cross rail lines at safe, designated locations.
“Being safe means slowing down, stopping, looking both ways and listening for approaching trains. All these behaviours combined will help make your ride a safer one.”
According to Operation Livesaver Canada, from January to November 2020, there have been 11 railway crossing and trespass incidents in Saskatchewan, resulting in two fatalities and one serious injury.
“Every time someone is injured or killed by a train collision, many people are negatively impacted,” the statement said. “This includes the operator but also family, friends, community, first responders and train crews.”
Here are some tips for riding safe:
- Use designated railway crossings.
- Slow down, look both ways and listen for approaching trains; proceed only if it is safe to do so.
- Stay off the tracks, trespassing on railway property is both dangerous and illegal.
- Use approved trails, not railway tracks.
- Keep in mind that trains can overhang the tracks by as much as one metre on each side.
- Stalls or stuck vehicles must be left behind. Once safe, immediately notify emergency responders by calling 911.
- Be rail-smart on an off-road vehicle: Stop. Look. Listen. Live.
