Little Rock, Ark. – Every day, thousands of Arkansans cross railroad tracks, yet many are unaware of a simple safety tool that can save lives. Marvin Fisher, a veteran railway safety educator, explains that the blue‑and‑white Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign is required at every public and private crossing and provides a direct line to the railroad dispatcher.
What the ENS sign looks like
The ENS sign is a distinctive blue background with white lettering. It lists three key pieces of information: the name of the railroad that owns the line, a dedicated emergency phone number, and a unique crossing identification number. That number lets railroad personnel pinpoint the exact location of an incident within seconds.
How to use the sign in an emergency
If a vehicle becomes stuck on the tracks, a truck overturns, or any other hazardous condition arises, Fisher urges drivers to call the dispatcher listed on the sign before dialing 911. The dispatcher can immediately alert all trains in the vicinity to stop, preventing a potential collision.
“Once you call that dispatcher before you call 911, that dispatcher has the ability to notify all trains to stop before they get to that crossing,” Fisher said.
Real‑world impact
Fisher cites a tragic crash in Pecos, Texas, where a truck stalled on a crossing and two Union Pacific employees lost their lives. He believes that a quick call to the ENS number could have averted the disaster.
Beyond stuck vehicles
The ENS sign is also useful for reporting other dangers, such as broken gates, debris on the tracks, or suspicious activity. By providing the crossing’s identification number, callers give railroad officials the precise location they need to respond efficiently.
Practical tips for drivers
Fisher recommends that drivers waiting for a train should stop a safe distance away from the tracks, rather than parking directly in front of a crossing gate. Extra clearance can protect occupants if a train drags equipment, a load shifts, or a derailment occurs.
He also points motorists to the Federal Railroad Administration’s Railroad Crossing Locator, an online tool that lets anyone look up crossing details nationwide.
Spread the word
“The blue and white can save your life,” Fisher emphasized. He encourages residents to share this information with friends, family, local fire departments, police, and other emergency services.
By familiarizing themselves with the ENS sign, Arkansans can help keep their communities safe and ensure that a quick call can stop a train before tragedy strikes.
Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.
