While most celebrations on the Fourth of July weekend involved barbecues and fireworks, Caltrain had a different kind of fireworks in mind at Hayward Park Station. More than 200 firefighters from different departments and agencies across the Bay Area attended a safety training over the holiday weekend to get up close and personal look at Caltrain’s new electric trains. They underwent hands-on training and informational walks to become familiar with the layout and safety features of the electric trains as the deployment of the new fleet approaches.
Firefighters from Cal Fire, Central County, Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Mateo and more came on-site to receive two days of interactive, on-site trainings regarding new train features and infrastructure. The firefighters had a chance to meet and hear from personnel from Caltrain’s Safety and Operations divisions, in conjunction with TransitAmerica Services, Inc. (TASI)’s train and mechanical operations. These recent trainings follow previously held informational sessions that were conducted from afar and through video.
Firefighters that attended the training were also familiarized with the electric trains’ built-in safety features, such as:
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Design-assisted visual verification of clear or occupied cars;
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New material for the seats that protect against a high volume of smoke in the case of a fire;
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Live multi-camera systems with two-way communication throughout the set; and
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Color-coded warning lights that efficiently communicate different statuses to emergency personnel and operators
The firefighters were also shown how to access and operate emergency access/egress features, and received additional firefighter awareness training on the new electric overhead contact systems (OCS).
As Caltrain prepares for the launch of the new electric fleet, safety is a collaborative effort and continues to be a priority. Thank you to all the firefighters and emergency responders who came out to be trained as we approach a new chapter in Caltrain’s history. We look forward to the additional on-site trainings that are scheduled to take place over the next few weekends. Caltrain and emergency responders alike are working together to ensure that electrification is a safe, exciting experience for all!
Caltrain’s new electric fleet will launch September 21.
