A new safety video released by National Rail has highlighted the dangers of using level crossings on farmland.
The short film, available in 3D, illustrates some of the dangers of not taking care when crossing private level crossings with farm machinery.
New figures from Network Rail reveal incidents at level crossings rise during harvest season, as farmers rush to gather their crops before the good weather runs out.
Last harvest season saw the most level crossing incidents in four years and almost 300 more incidents than the previous year.
NFU vice-president Guy Smith said: “Many of the accidents and fatalities that we have on farms can be reduced by just observing safe practice. That is very true of using level crossings.
“Farmers can minimise and mitigate the risks involved with crossings on their land, which are private for their use, by simply following safe procedure.”
“So, if there is a phone available, phone a signalman and get permission to cross... if there isn't a phone available, it is a matter of following instructions on the board.
“I'm a great believer that we can be a safer industry if we just change a bit of culture and a bit of behaviour.”
'It's not a game'
Network Rail is working closely with the British Transport Police and train operators to reduce incidents across the network.
Their safety campaign will run for six weeks.
Network Rail said: “We can't tackle this issue alone. We’re doing all we can to keep people safe near level crossings and on the railway in general.
“It’s not a game: they are real tracks, with real trains and real life-changing consequences. If you're a parent, carer, or work with young people please help us by talking to your kids about the dangers of not paying attention at level crossing or going on the tracks.”
