Police: Full Steam Ahead For 'Operation Clear Track'

STONINGTON, CT—Every three hours a person or vehicle is hit by a train, according to national statistics. To educate, and cite if necessary, Stonington Police along with hundreds of law enforcement agencies nationwide are participating in “Operation Clear Track,” as part of Rail Safety Week.

According to Stonington Police Lt. Todd Olson, local police will work with the Amtrak Police Department and Operation Lifesaver, the nonprofit rail safety education organization, to help raise awareness and enforce state railroad grade crossing and trespassing laws.

Rail Safety Week is Sept. 22-28.

The enforcement and education program will be held Sept. 24. Motorists, and pedestrians, will get railroad safety information from stationed officers but also, citations or warnings if not in compliance with laws that require vehicles to stop at crossings.

The third annual rail safety detail, carried out in 48 states, is the single largest rail safety law enforcement initiative in the U.S.

"The goal of Rail Safety Week is to reduce pedestrian and driver injuries and fatalities around railroad tracks through increased public awareness and enforcement," the press release reads.