As the festive season gets in full swing, train operators across the country are working together to keep passengers safe on station platforms during this busy period.
Hull Trains, Lumo, Northern, Thameslink, Great Northern, LNER, TransPennine Express and Network Rail have joined forces to create a safety campaign urging all rail users to follow a simple but crucial piece of advice: stay behind the yellow line.
The festive period sees millions of people travelling by train to visit friends and family, attend seasonal events, and complete their holiday shopping. Due to increased passenger numbers, stations become particularly busy, heightening the risk of accidents on platforms. In response, train companies have united to remind people to take extra care and remain behind the yellow line at all times when waiting for their train.
The campaign highlights the importance of staying well clear of the platform edge until the train has come to a complete stop. The bright yellow line painted on station platforms is there as a vital safety guide, and crossing it can put passengers in danger of falling or being caught by moving trains as shown in one video clip released as part of the campaign.
David Hughes, Safety Governance Manager for Lumo and Hull Trains, who led the campaign, said: “During the festive period, we see a significant increase in station activity, from families with children to people with bulky luggage and Christmas gifts. While it’s a time of joy and celebration, we’re urging everyone to be mindful of their safety on platforms. Staying behind the yellow line is a simple action that can prevent accidents and ensure everyone gets to their destination safely.”
The campaign brings together major train operating companies on the East Coast route along with Network Rail to deliver consistent safety messages.
Passengers will see clear reminders of safety information at stations through posters, digital displays, announcements, and social media posts.
Train operators are particularly focused on communicating this message to young children, families, and infrequent travellers who may not be as familiar with rail safety rules at a time of year when many people might make their only trip by train.
Top tips for staying safe:
- Always stand behind the yellow line when waiting for a train.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions, such as mobile phones, when near the platform edge.
- Hold children’s hands and keep luggage and pushchairs secure to avoid accidental slips.
- Wait for the train to come to a complete stop before approaching the doors.
As so many people looking forward to their festive travels, train companies are united in ensuring safety remains a top priority. This campaign builds on the rail industry’s ongoing efforts to improve safety and reduce platform incidents year-round.