A VIDEO showing people risking their lives to cross the railway has been published in a bid to highlight the dangers. 

Network Rail has released CCTV of two people who push through the barriers to get over the railway line as a train is approaching. 

Becky Lumlock, route managing director of Network Rail, said: “There’s no excuse for this kind of reckless behaviour. Trains go over this stretch of line at up to 60 mph, and once the barriers are down that means a train is imminently approaching. A trip or a stumble while trying to run across is all it would take, and the train driver wouldn’t have enough time to stop.

“I’d like to urge anyone who uses level crossings to do so safely, and please don’t ever be tempted to cross when a train is approaching. Please think about your own safety, and the impact that it could have on your families and the train driver. It really isn’t worth the risk.”

Inspector Becky Warren from British Transport Police, said: “Despite our constant warnings about using crossings safely and the dangers of the railway, incredibly some people are still willing to put their lives on the line by ignoring crossing instructions, not looking properly or by trying to dash across crossings when trains are approaching.

“This footage is frightening to watch as this quick jump across the barriers could have killed him. It is difficult to understand why he would take such a risk but I hope he never does it again.

“As a police officer, I have had to deliver messages to families that their loved one has been killed by a train at a level crossing. Please, think and never take the risk.” 

When using level crossings, Network Rail advises pedestrians to:

Look both ways and cross only when it is safe to do so.

Pay attention to barriers and warning lights.

Don’t use mobile phones while crossing, as these can distract your attention.

Take out your headphones; trains will often sound their horns to let pedestrians know that they are approaching.

Walk, don’t run.