AMES, Iowa – Sept. 17, 2026 – If you see railroad tracks, you should always expect a train. The Iowa Department of Transportation’s rail safety team is encouraging this safety message as it recognizes Operation Lifesaver’s See Tracks? Think Train® Week, Sept. 21-27, 2026. The DOT will observe the week with a social media campaign and events for employees and the public to increase awareness about the importance of rail safety and rail safety education.
“Iowa is seeing an uptick in commercial vehicle versus train incidents where folks are driving through the railroad signal gates and into the side of trains, which likely is distracted driving,” said Iowa DOT Rail Director Amanda Martin.
“You might think you know the train schedule, how fast the train is going, or how many trains a day are at that location. The truth is that trains operate on their own schedule. This can fluctuate if there are delays, and their speed can vary depending on many factors.”
There were 40 railroad incidents in Iowa last year (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026). This included incidents at railroad crossings, between crossings, and involving trespassers. Five of those incidents (12.5%) resulted in fatalities, and 25 percent resulted in injuries.
Make Good Decisions Around Tracks and Trains
- Always expect a train. Freight trains don’t follow a schedule.
- Only cross tracks at designated crossings.
- Only cross if you’re certain you can completely clear the crossing. If you don’t fit, don’t commit.
- Find the blue and white sign. If your vehicle stalls or gets stuck on the tracks, get out immediately and get away from the tracks. Find the blue and white Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign and call the number.
- Stay at least 15 feet back from tracks. Trains overhang tracks.
- Railroad tracks are private property. Walking on tracks is illegal and dangerous.
Know the Signs and Signals
Not all railroad crossings have the gates and flashing lights that you may expect. Crossings fall into two categories: active and passive. Knowing the difference and how to approach each is essential for staying safe.
Last year, railroad incidents occurred at 17 passive railroad crossings compared to 5 incidents at crossings with flashing lights and 5 incidents at crossings with flashing lights and gates.
Advance warning signs and pavement markings tell you that railroad tracks cross the road ahead. When you see these, eliminate distractions, roll down your windows, and turn off your music. Slow down and always expect a train.
Actively protected crossings have lights and/or gates. If the lights are flashing or the gates are down, a train is approaching. Always obey these warning signals. Never try to go around the gate or cross when lights are flashing.
Passively protected crossings do not have lights or gates. These crossings are marked only with a crossbuck and a stop or yield sign. At this type of crossing, slow down, eliminate distractions, and look for an oncoming train. Use extra caution at night.
“We sincerely want everyone to go home safe each night to their family,” Martin emphasized. “Trying to beat a train, going around the gates, or being distracted can change your family’s life forever. Please yield or stop for trains and pay close attention when you see tracks.”
To learn how the Iowa DOT keeps safety on track, please visit: Track Safety | Department of Transportation. For additional information on participating or to access campaign materials, please visit the Operation Lifesaver, Inc. website.
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For general questions on rail safety, contact Iowa DOT Rail Director Amanda Martin at [email protected] or 515-239-1653.
About Operation Lifesaver
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is a national #RailSafetyEducation nonprofit dedicated to stopping track tragedies through public awareness and education campaigns, as well as a national volunteer network that gives free presentations encouraging safe behavior near tracks and trains. OLI supports the efforts of 47 state programs and the District of Columbia in sharing the rail safety education message. Explore OLI's virtual library of rail safety materials on the oli.org website. Visit oli.org to learn more, take a rail safety pledge, request free presentations, and volunteer. Follow OLI on social media via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, X, and YouTube.