Railroad Operations

Many new train owners are not aware of railroad operation instructions or safety items.  While each railroad has it's unique ways of running things, there is a basic standard of every railroad which is outlined below.

Note; An excellent safety video was created by Train Mountain here but there is a lot of information specific to Train Mountain.

General Instructions

1. Train crew must flag when stopped in areas of limited vision.  A warning device needs placed at a sufficient distance for an approaching train to stop so as to avoid an accident.
2. Train crew are responsible for returning switches back to normal position after switching movements are completed.
3. Trains and engines will run at a speed consistent with conditions, be prepared to stop short of a train, engine car, switch improperly lined or any other obstruction.
4. Engine operators must approach other trains (meet or pass) with caution, ensuring switches are properly lined to prevent accidents.  Check switch points visually as you approach.

Equipment

1. All trains will display a white light to the front and red light to the rear.
2. Headlights must be dimmed or extinguished when the train is on a siding.
3. At least one fire extinguisher must be present near the engine.
4. A red safety flag 12"x12" will be in the conductor car.
5. An FRS radio is required at some/most railroads.
6. Safety chains (welded links) or cable links.  Connectors must have screw type closures.
7. Horn signals:
1. [short] = Train has come to a stop.
2. [short] [short] = Proceeding forward.
3. [short] [short] [short] = Reversing.
4. [long] [long] [short] [long] = Approaching crossing (also use when view is obstructed).
5. [long] [short] [short] = Notify/Acknowledge section occupancy.
6. [short] [short] [short] [short] [short] [short] = Succession of short horn is to alarm others.

Movement Indicators