Safety

 

Steamtown offers a unique chance to experience the sights, sounds, and steam of America's railroading history! With this experience comes responsibility, and a few important safety rules.

Please take a moment to review the guidance on this page to learn more about how to have a safe visit at Steamtown.

 

 

Track 1

 

 

The Three S's of Safety

Steamtown isn't just a musuem... it's an active railroad, where trains and equipment are on the move all the time! 
If you hear a whistle, bell, or horn while you are visiting the park, you should:

1. STOP what you are doing

When you are outside and hear a whistle, horn, or bell, immediately stop any activity.
These sounds typically indicate that a train or piece of equipment is on the move, and stopping gives you a moment to pause and focus on your surroundings.

2. SPOT all moving trains

Look carefully in all directions to identify any moving trains, equipment, or vechicles.
Even if a train is moving slowly or coming to a stop, any movement is important to be aware of.

3. STEP away from the tracks

Put safe distance between yourself and all tracks, railcars, and equipment. It is recommended that you move to a designated walkway or platform, being certain to keep clear of areas where trains may pass.

Trains can overhang the rails, so be sure to relocate to an area far from the track. Step well away until it is quiet and clear before continuing exploring.

 

Track 2

 

 

Train Track Safety Tips

There's a lot of tracks at Steamtown! 
To stay safe around the tracks, you should NEVER...

...walk on the tracks

Even if the tracks look empty, a train can come at any moment!
If you walk down the middle of the tracks, almost like a sidewalk, you are putting yourself in harms way.

...sit, stand, or pose on tracks

Even for photos!

...balance on the rails

They may look like a balance beam, but playing on the rails is an easy way to slip and fall.

...place items on the tracks

It's dangerous and can damage equipment or derail a locomotive.
Even small objects like coins should never be placed on the tracks.

 

Track 3

 

 

Watch Your Step, and Where You're Walking!

Throughout the park, you may be met with uneven surfaces, and areas where you are not allowed to explore!

Be mindful of uneven surfaces

There are plenty of uneven surfaces at Steamtown, including things like gravel, wooden boardwalks, and rails. Be aware that these and other surfaces may shift underfoot and can cause you to trip and fall.

Use designated pathways

Stay on designated pathways, such as sidewalks and wooden boardwalks, whenever possible.

Avoid shortcuts between railcars

Especially when exploring in the railyard, it is important to avoid shortcuts.

While crossing in between railcars may seem like the most direct route, an oncoming train may not see you there, putting yourself at uneccessary risk.

Explore the railyard from the mall bridge

The best spot to safely view equipment in the railyard is from the mall bridge! This spot gives you a birds eye view of the yard, and is a great photo location.

Hold handrails when available

This is especially important on ramps, platforms, and train steps.

Keep an eye out for Authorized Personnel Only signs

These signs let you know to turn back and explore elsewhere. Please do not ever go past them!