OC Sheriff’s Office to participate in Operation Clear Track

In an effort to promote safety at railroad crossings, the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in the second annual “Operation Clear Track.” “Amtrak Police Headquarters sent us some information on the “Operation Clear Track” initiative and we are proud to be a part of this nationwide effort to promote pedestrian and vehicular safety as it regards our railroad crossings,” says Oconee County Sheriff Mike Crenshaw. “We have signed up to participate in this event which is coming up next Tuesday.” The initiative is hosted by Amtrak and Operation Lifesaver, Inc. and it recognizes National Rail Safety Week. “Operation Clear Track” is a one-day safety initiative to enforce state grade crossing and trespassing laws on America’s railroad tracks. “Operation Safe Track” is the largest single day railroad safety law enforcement initiative in the United States. On Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2018, the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office will have deputies located at three railroad crossings in the county to enforce these laws should infractions occur. The initiative requires officers to be at their designated railroad crossings for at least three hours. Deputies are scheduled to work these intersections: South Walnut Street and East South 1st Street in Seneca, East Main Street near Lindsey Road in Seneca and Highway 188 at South Cover Road in the Bountyland Community. Sheriff Crenshaw would also like to provide the citizens of Oconee County with the following railroad crossing safety tips: Never drive around or walk on the railroad tracks when the crossing gates are lowered. In fact, if you are walking, running, or standing on or near the railroad tracks, you are trespassing on private property and are in violation of the law for which you could be issued a citation. Never attempt to outrun on foot or in your vehicle an approaching train. If you approach a railroad crossing and you see flashing red lights and/or the crossing gates either on their way down or completely down on both sides, stop your vehicle prior to the train tracks. Do not stop your vehicle on a grade crossing under any circumstances. Only cross railroad tracks on foot where there is a designated public crossing. If you notice an obstruction at a railroad crossing or any type of malfunction with the emergency lights or the crossing gates, contact your local law enforcement agency immediately.