Trains - Operation Lifesaver

Growing up, we didn’t have neighbors across the street. We had train tracks. My dad worked at B. F. Goodrich in Miami and we lived fairly close to the plant. I’m not sure if the tracks carried material into and out of the BFG, but in my mind they’re connected.

The train engineers would wave as the trains moved by while my sister and I played in the front yard. Hearing their horn and the roar as they went past was one of the ways I marked the time of my childhood days, pleasantly absent of a wristwatch.

Even now, living in Neosho, we live near the tracks. The railroad bridge and line that runs behind Griffith Motors is close to our house. I love watching the trains cross overhead as we drive on the roadway beneath. I even like hearing the crazy, early morning whistles of the train that every few weeks pull through town around 5 a.m.

Our kids love trains as well. The top shelf of our large family bookcase is specially set aside for the Box Car Children books. Each one dated on the title page with the day and year each of our children finished reading it.

This week at work, we’re observing Operation Lifesaver, a time devoted to raising awareness about railroad crossing safety. I’m crazy competitive, love to come in first whenever possible. This is one time that I’m not too thrilled with our standings.

For the entire state of Missouri, 20% of all railroad crossing accidents occur in Jasper and Newton counties. And understand this – those individuals involved in these accidents are primarily in their 30s and 40s – not the distracted teens and early 20s I had originally assumed.

Each and every day, I try to cram more and more appointments and errands into my day. I often fail to take into consideration the “flex” time I’ll need just to get from one spot to the next. Railroad crossings and no place to be running behind and trying to make up a little time; there’s a reason why school busses come to a complete stop at all crossings – it’s smart to stop and look. Be safe before you cross.

Throughout this week we’ll be taking reporters are some short rail trips, letting them see first hand the number of times motorists try to beat the trains here in Neosho and some other locations in the two county area. I know from visiting with many of you that read this column that we’re all juggling more balls in the air than we can some days count; today’s our day to add travel time into our planners, allow for the occasional train to cross your path. Take the opportunity to relax and count your blessings as you safely wait at the crossing….and be sure to wave.