16 Questions
What is the maximum speed at which passenger trains operate in Toronto?
150 km/h
Why is it difficult to access railway lines during an emergency?
Because of the difficulty in accessing the tracks
Who operates tracks in Toronto, aside from Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) and Canadian National Railway (CNR)?
Government of Ontario (GO) Transit
What should the Incident Commander do first in a rail incident?
Ensure equipment is not deployed across tracks
What should be done when crossing more than one rail line?
Contact both CNR and CPR emergency contact numbers
Why may it be difficult to stop a large freight train?
Because it takes considerable time and distance to stop
What should the Incident Commander do after identifying the track owner?
Request rail traffic stoppage
What is the role of the Incident Safety Officer (ISO) during a rail incident?
To ensure scene safety and coordinate operations
What is a common misconception about trains in relation to firefighting operations?
Firefighters will always have time to clear the area before a train arrives.
When should firefighters deploy a fire hose across railway tracks?
Only when there is a reasonable reason to believe that lives are at stake.
What is the primary responsibility of on-scene firefighting personnel in a derailment situation?
The safety of passengers and crew aboard the derailed train.
Why should spotters be posted when working on or near railway tracks?
To serve as advanced lookouts and warn the crew of an approaching train.
What should be done when attempting to dig under the tracks?
Firefighters should be careful to watch for trains and be able to abandon their position in a moment's notice.
How many personnel should be assigned to posts adjacent to those working on the tracks?
Two
Who should be notified immediately in the event of a derailment?
The applicable rail operator.
What is the meaning of 'Train time is anytime'?
Trains can arrive at any time, and firefighters should be prepared.
Study Notes
General Guidelines for Railway Incidents
- Passenger trains in Toronto operate at maximum speeds up to 150 km/h.
- It takes large (freight) trains considerable time and up to 1.5 km to stop, even in emergency situations.
- Railway lines present unique hazards, including:
- Difficulty accessing the area
- Uncertainty about train operation and ownership
- Canadian National Railways (CNR)
- Canadian Pacific Railways (CPR)
- Government of Ontario (GO) Transit
- Other agencies may be involved
- The Incident Commander must attempt to identify the track owner and contact the appropriate agency to stop trains.
Hazards and Safety Precautions
- Trains can be quiet and may not be heard in time to clear the area safely.
- Trains may not be pulled from the front engine, making it difficult for the Engineer to see obstacles.
- Firefighters should not deploy equipment across tracks unless lives are at stake.
- Alternative methods can be used, such as requesting additional apparatus or digging underneath the tracks.
- Confirmation from the Incident Commander is required before deploying equipment across or working on tracks.
Emergency Procedures
- In the event of a derailment, the safety of passengers and crew is the primary responsibility of on-scene firefighters.
- The applicable rail operator must be immediately notified of the derailment situation.
- For emergency communications, contact:
- Canadian National Rail Police at 1 (800) 465-9239
- Canadian Pacific Rail Police at 1 (800) 551-2553
- For GO Transit emergencies, contact CN Rail Police or CP Rail Police
- For non-emergencies, contact GO Transit Communications at (905) 803-0642
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