Caltrain > Rail Safety > Caltrain Safety Tips > Rail Safety Is For Everyone

Play It Safe!

Every day, Caltrain travels up and down the San Francisco Peninsula, carrying people to work and other destinations safely.

Which end of the train is the front?

On Caltrain, about half the time, the locomotive leads the train, pulling the cars along. But on other trains, the cab car leads the train, pushed from behind by the locomotive. This is called "push-pull mode." Normally, the locomotive pulls the train south toward San Jose. Going toward San Francisco, the cab car leads the train, with the locomotive pushing.

So look carefully to see which way the train is moving. And remember that the cab car end is quieter than the locomotive.

Watch out for a second train

At most places on the rail line, Caltrain has at least two tracks. Be alert for trains coming on either track. When you see the last car of a passing train, don't cross until you are sure that no other trains are coming on another track.

And remember that not all trains operate on a set schedule: in addition to Caltrain, freight, maintenance and other passenger trains run on our tracks.

Around railroads, expect a train at any time, going any direction, on any track.

At Caltrain, safety is our top priority -- at the station, near tracks, getting on and off the train, on board and while driving your car. But we need the cooperation of everyone - from passengers to people who live or work near the railroad - to stay as safe as possible. That's why we've prepared some simple guidelines about how to play it safe around railroads.

. . . . at the station

Stand behind the the yellow line on the platform as trains approach. Wait until the train stops before going to the center platform. Platforms and crossings can get slippery; step carefully.

Some Caltrains are express trains and don't stop at every station. These trains go very fast, which is another reason to stay back from the platform edge. And, never sit on the edge of the platform.

Do not go around the fence between tracks, or cross the tracks when the lights or bells at pedestrian gates are activated. They warn of approaching trains through the station and are there for your safety.

When you are at the station with your children, keep them in sight and close to you.

. . . . near tracks

Rail tracks are extremely dangerous. Stay off of them. They are no place for walkers or joggers. Don't take shortcuts across the tracks to get to the station.

Only use designated crossings, marked by signs or gates. If you're not using a designated crossing, you're trespassing! Although you're subject to citation and even a fine, the main reason to stay off the tracks is to be safe.

Never put anything on the tracks or throw objects at a train. You can seriously injure yourself - and others. (And you could be subject to arrest!)

. . . . getting on and off the train

Wait for the train to come to a complete stop. Please allow other passengers to get off before you board. Hold onto the handrails and watch your step. When getting off, don't stand on the steps before the doors open. Never jump on or off a moving train.

. . . . on board

Never ride between cars or in the vestibule. It's safe and more comfortable inside the rail car.

When you are standing, or if you are moving through the car to get a seat, brace yourself for sudden starts and stops. Handholds are provided throughout the passenger cars.

Look for and read posted information on emergency exits.

. . . . driving your car

Look and listen for trains as you approach the tracks. Before you start to cross, look both ways to make sure the way is clear to get all the way across. Never go around lowered crossing gates or cross tracks when warning lights are flashing. It's against the law - and it's dangerous. Make sure you can get all the way across the tracks before you start. Don't shift gears while you're crossing.

If your vehicle stalls on a crossing, get everyone out and away from the tracks immediately. If a train is coming, run in the opposite direction of the train and away from the tracks. If you do not see a train, call 911 or the 800 number posted near the crossing gates. Remember, keep away from your car and the tracks.

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07/20/07 - jbw