Be Safe Around Railways

Station Safety

Please read the safety notices around the Railway Platforms and Information Desks - they are there for a reason - to maintain safety of passengers.

Whilst waiting to board a train, do not stand too near to the edge of the Platform and use the painted line as a guide to ensure your safety.

If something is dropped onto the railway line, do not make an attempt to retrieve it.  Inform a member of staff immediately.

Level crossing safety

When using a level crossing, it's important that you ensure your safety and behave responsibly, as they can be dangerous if they are not used correctly.

There are several different types of level crossing, but regardless of which one you use, the safety message remains the same: be sensible and adhere to warning signs.

Stay safe at level crossings

• As you approach the crossing, be ready to stop behind the white line if the lights begin to flash
• If the red lights keep flashing after a train has passed, wait - another train is coming
• If the amber light comes on while you are on the crossing then you must keep going.
• Never reverse onto or over the level crossing.
• Keep children with you at all times near a level crossing.
• Keep dogs on a lead.
• Only cross when barriers are fully raised, the lights go off, or when you are granted permission by an operator

Trespass and vandalism

Trespass and vandalism to railways cause millions of pounds worth of damage nationally and puts lives in danger. The Police are actively targeting those who commit this type of crime.

Trespass is a serious offence and it can be a major safety hazard. Stay off the railway lines.

Vandals putting obstructions in front of trains, hanging things from bridges and throwing stones are serious crimes that can lead to serious injury or death and can even derail trains.

Trespass often leads to other offences; it is difficult to commit vandalism or to obstruct trains without trespassing.

Graffiti also poses safety issues. Vandals often put their lives at risk in the act of spraying difficult surfaces, such as bridges, putting themselves and others in danger.

Theft

The most common type of theft is pick-pocketing, followed by theft through victims leaving items unattended or unwatched. Mobile phones make up about a quarter of all property stolen, with luggage making up 10%. Help keep your valuables safe by looking after your property.

Cable Theft

Cable theft causes widespread disruption. The Police take a hard line against those who steal cable or sell it on.

If you have information about cable theft on the railway please call 0800 40 50 40

Football policing

The vast majority of football fans who use the railways do so without causing any problems. The small minority who exhibit antisocial or criminal behaviour are targeted so everyone can have a safe and pleasant journey

CCTV

CCTV is used to keep the public safe and catch those suspected of criminal activity on the railways.

CCTV can:

• Monitor potentially hazardous situations
• Identify and follow suspects
• Provide powerful evidence in court
• Boost public confidence with cameras acting as a deterrent

Victims of crime

If you become a victim of crime, report it to the police who will keep you informed of every stage of the investigation and put you in touch with support services.

Victim Support:

• victimsupport.westlothian@victimsupportsco.org.uk
• Victim Support Scotland website (opens new window)
• Telephone: 0845 3030 900

You can help stop crime

Please telephone:

• 999 (emergency) or
• 101 (non-emergency),
• Call BTP - British Transport Police to report a crime or incident on 0800 40 50 40
• Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111