Palmetto Railways Participates in See Tracks? Think Train Week
PRESS RELEASE
Charleston, S.C. (September 12, 2025) – In support of Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI), Palmetto Railways (PR) is participating in See Tracks? Think Train® Week (formerly Rail Safety Week in the U.S.). The weeklong campaign, September 15-21, focuses on educating the public on rail safety and making good safe choices around railroad tracks and trains. According to OLI’s data, “every 3 hours in the United States, a person or a vehicle is hit by a train. More than 2,300 people are injured or killed annually in railroad crossing and trespass incidents in North America.”
OLI, a non-profit organization, is a nationally recognized leader in rail safety education. Since 1972, OLI has been committed to preventing collisions, fatalities and injuries on railroad tracks and highway-rail grade crossings. "Safety is our top priority at Palmetto Railways, and it guides everything we do. Our mission is to ensure that everyone in the communities where we serve understands the potential dangers of railroad crossings and property and knows how to protect themselves. This week is an opportunity to strengthen our commitment to public safety and encourage responsible actions around railroad tracks. Palmetto Railways is committed to educating the public about railroad safety and working to prevent incidents at crossings and on tracks. We believe that safety starts with awareness, says Patrick McCrory, President & CEO of Palmetto Railways.”
During See Tracks Think Train Week Palmetto Railways will share messages of railroad track safety and statistics with teammates as well as externally on LinkedIn. Each day, OLI has an area of focus from warning signs and rail crossings to driver and pedestrian safety to stopping track tragedies. Friday will culminate the week with “Red Out for Rail Safety”, and PR teammates will wear red t-shirts with a reminder message to stop, look, and listen at rail crossings.
Palmetto Railways fully supports the need for continuous public education for rail safety. Being aware of the different types of warning signs and/or lights and signals at rail crossings are crucial. Going around signals and crossing gates can be extremely dangerous. Walking, jogging, playing, taking photographs, on or around tracks can be life threatening. A train can come from any direction and at any time.
Safety Tips for "See Track? Think Train" Week
Palmetto Railways encourages the public to follow these simple yet crucial safety guidelines:
- Always Stop, Look, and Listen: Before crossing railroad tracks, make sure the tracks are clear of trains, and never attempt to cross if the lights are flashing or the gates are down.
- No Trespassing: Stay away from tracks unless you are at a designated crossing. Railroads are private property, and trespassing is dangerous and illegal.
- Keep Kids and Pets Safe: Always supervise children and pets near railroad tracks, and ensure they remain a safe distance from the tracks at all times.
Palmetto Railways prides itself on making rail safety a mindset, not just this week, but every day for our teammates.
About Palmetto Railways
Palmetto Railways, a division of the South Carolina Department of Commerce, is a Class III short line railroad that supports South Carolina’s economic development efforts through technical assistance and consulting services in railroad matters to state, local and municipal governments. Established in 1969 as a state-owned and operated enterprise agency, Palmetto Railways provides general railroad services including rail car handling, repair and maintenance. For more information on Palmetto Railways, visit www.palmettorailways.com.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Jennifer Brown
Director of Industrial Development
(843) 727-2067
