April 24 to 30 is Rail Safety Week, and Canadian Pacific Railway is asking the public to remember to look, listen, and live.

Trespasser accidents involve persons, primarily pedestrians, not authorized to be on railway rights-of-way and who are struck at a location other than a railway crossing. These accidents totalled 50 in 2015, many of which were fatal, and preventable.

Salem Woodrow, CP Spokesperson, says Rail Safety Week serves as a good reminder for residents to use caution around railway tracks.

"CP, and CP Police service is reminding the public that they must stay off of railway tracks and observe all laws when driving over railway crossings. Given the number of preventable trespassing incidents that occured in 2015 this week serves as a useful reminder to be safe, aware, and vigilant around railways tracks and property."

Woodrow shares residents in towns with railway crossings like Okotoks can become complacent with laws and safety around tracks.

"Rail safety does require vigilance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 356 days a year, so we're asking everyone to consider their own safety around railways property. That includes when folks are driving near railway crossings to make sure they look and listen for a train, and when the crossing gates are coming down make sure they stop in time. For people on bicycles or walking, they must make sure they cross at a designated crossing and always look and listen for oncoming trains."

CP will hold outreach activities throughout the week across the country, and CP Officers will be out visiting schools and educating students.

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