Released 29/07/2020
The ACT Government is reminding the community to pay attention when in the light rail corridor and to take responsibility for their actions ahead of Rail Safety Week.
Minister for Transport Chris Steel said that Rail Safety Week, which begins next Monday 10 August and runs until Sunday 16 August, is an important reminder to Canberrans to know their personal responsibilities for the safety of themselves and others.
“Even though we’re asking the community to avoid public transport in peak times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the light rail remains an important part of the daily routine for many Canberrans who use it to and from their work,” Mr Steel said.
“It’s vital that Canberrans take important steps to be safe when they are near a light rail vehicle. It’s as easy as being aware of our surroundings to reduce the risk of being involved in an accident or a near miss.
“Remember, stay behind the yellow line at our light rail stops, wait for the green light and look both ways before you cross tracks or the road, and limit your distractions from devices such as mobile phones when near the light rail tracks.
“People should never in any situation walk along the tracks and they should only cross at the designated walkways. Road users are also reminded to check their blind spots, particularly to their right, before crossing the light rail tracks.
“Passengers travelling in light rail vehicles should take a seat if there is one available or hold onto one of the regularly sanitised handrails or straps as vehicles can brake unexpectedly.
“If people are concerned about the safety of themselves or others when using the light rail, there are Emergency Help Points onboard vehicles and at all platforms for direct contact to the Canberra Metro Operational Control Centre.”
Rail Safety Week is an annual community awareness week held in Australia and New Zealand designed to engage the community in safe rail practices. In its 15th year the TrackSAFE initiative aims to create a heightened awareness for the importance of rail safety.
“For the second year in a row we are lucky enough to have local Paralympian Vanessa Low as the rail safety ambassador in Canberra,” Mr Steel said.
“Vanessa is a German-born Australian Paralympian who in June 2006, at 15 years old, was involved in a rail incident which resulted in the loss of both her legs.
“Last year Vanessa helped Canberrans understand the importance of rail safety by sharing her story. In the past 12 months she has become an even stronger advocate for rail safety by becoming a national ambassador for TrackSAFE.”
For more information about staying safe visit cmet.com.au or go to tracksafefoundation.com.au/rail-safety-week
- Statement ends -
Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases