MoDOT, MDA promote safety at farm-rail crossings

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- With harvest in full swing, the Missouri departments of Transportation and Agriculture want to remind farmers to pay extra attention where field and farm access roads cross railroad tracks, and to be especially cautious at private access farm-rail crossings that are not equipped with warning signs, lights, bells or gates.

"Harvest time is the busiest time of the year for farm families," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "The Missouri Department of Agriculture wants it to also be the safest time of the year and urges all to take extra precautions and stay alert."

Missouri has the 10th largest railroad system in the nation with more than 4,000 total miles of mainline track and approximately 6,600 public and private crossings. Many of those crossings are used by farmers and their employees.

"Tractors, trucks and other farm equipment are noisy and slow moving," said MoDOT Rail Administrator Rod Massman. "When you approach a railroad crossing, don't take a chance. Slow down, be prepared to stop and always look, listen and live."

The Missouri departments of transportation and agriculture urge anyone operating a farm vehicle to follow these safety tips:

Don't get stuck on the track

Before crossing, be sure there is room on the other side to completely clear the tracks without stopping. Leave at least 15 feet between your equipment and the nearest rail.

Low-slung equipment can get stuck on "humped" crossings. Do not proceed if there is any question.

Never stop on tracks to open or close farm gates!

Don't lose a load -- or a life

Check hitch pins to ensure they cannot dislodge while crossing.

Secure the load so materials are not dislodged onto train tracks while crossing.

Avoid tips and spills. Make sure farm machinery wheels are properly lined up with the farm-rail crossing. Sloshing liquids in a tank or a top heavy grain wagon are prone to tipping.

Watch weather conditions. Rain and ice can make crossings slick when roads are not.

If a train can be seen coming, wait.

Don't try to beat a train. An approaching train may be closer and traveling faster than it appears, and it cannot stop quickly.

Farm tractors pulling heavy or bulky loads may take more time to clear a crossing than anticipated.

Get out and get away

Safety officials advise that should a vehicle become stuck on the tracks, get everyone out and far away immediately, even if no train appears to be nearby.

Call the emergency notification number posted at the crossing or notify law enforcement. Keep emergency information handy for frequently used farm-rail crossings (name and emergency notification number of the railroad, railroad milepost number, and U.S. DOT crossing number).