ICC Promotes Rail Crossing Safety For ENS Sign Awareness Day

CHICAGO – Operation Lifesaver has designated June 24 as Emergency Notification System (ENS) Sign Awareness Day to highlight the importance of blue and white signs posted at rail crossings across the country.

“All motorists and pedestrians should know about these potentially life-saving signs, what the information listed means, and the steps to take if you or someone you witness get stuck on train tracks,” said Aisha Jackson, ICC Rail Safety Specialist and Illinois Operation Lifesaver Coordinator.

Illinois has the second largest rail system of any state in the US with approximately 14,553 rail crossings and bridges statewide. The network is operated by 91 railroads or industries providing rail service to ports and industrial facilities across the state.

“Should a vehicle stall on rail tracks, exit immediately and move away from the tracks. Once safely off the tracks, look for the blue and white ENS sign posted near the crossing, call the number listed, and share the crossing ID number. This helps the railroad know your exact location to alert trains. If you can’t spot the sign – call 911,” Jackson added.

The blue and white signs may be used to report other non-emergency safety issues at specific locations, such as malfunctioning warning gates and signals.

If you live in the Chicagoland area, Illinois Operation Lifesaver and the DuPage Rail Safety Council will be broadcasting a “Find the Blue & White” public service announcement on CBS and WGN.

Visit Illinois Operation Lifesaver for more rail safety tips.

About the Illinois Commerce Commission

The ICC is a quasi-judicial body made up of five Commissioners. Through its Public Utility Program, the Commission oversees the provision of adequate, reliable, efficient, and safe utility services at the least possible cost to Illinois citizens served by electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, and sewer public utility companies. Through its Transportation Regulatory Program, the Commission oversees public safety and consumer protection programs with regard to intrastate commercial motor carriers of general freight, household goods movers, relocation towers, safety towers, personal property warehouses, and repossession agencies. The ICC’s Rail Safety Program also inspects and regulates the general safety of railroad tracks, facilities, and equipment in the state.

To learn more about the Commission, its offices, and bureaus here. Consumers who need help resolving a utility dispute can call 800-524-0795 or file an online complaint. For all transportation-related complaints, call 847-294-4326.

Follow the Illinois Commerce Commission on social media @ILCommerceComm.

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