Network Rail is warning people not to trespass on any part of the railway after several youths were seen climbing on a structure by the side of the tracks at Kirby Cross station in Essex.
The youths were oblivious to the dangers of the overhead wires which can be seen just behind them. The electric on the railway is always on and these wires carry up to 25,000 volts of electricity. This electricity can jump and anyone who comes into contact will have life changing injuries or die as a result. There is also the risk of a nasty fall as the structure has measures in place to prevent it from being climbed by unauthorised people.
The structure is a signal gantry and Network Rail’s engineers use it when carrying out maintenance under strict safety procedures.
Children and their parents are reminded that the railway is full of hidden dangers and there are serious and catastrophic consequences for anyone who trespasses as well as the impact on loved ones, rail staff and communities as a whole.
Richard Tew, Network Rail’s head of safety for Anglia, said: “These youths were completely oblivious to the nearby overhead wires which carry up to 25,000 volts and can kill instantly or leave the person with life changing injuries if they survive.
“The hidden dangers on the railway are real and have far-reaching and devastating consequences for anyone who trespasses, which also affect family, friends and communities. Trespassing on any part of the railway isn’t worth the risk.
“If your friends are trespassing don’t follow them. Call 0800 40 50 40 or text the British Transport Police on 61016.”
Information on the dangers of railway trespass and the You vs Train campaign can be found on the You vs Train website.
Photo credit: Network Rail
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