A new safety campaign has been launched after figures revealed a rise in railway accidents and near misses, including 28 incidents on the line serving Dorset.
Network Rail and British Transport Police are urging people to stay alert near tracks and level crossings as accidental deaths on Britain’s railways reached a five-year high last year.
Twenty-four people died, including five at level crossings, with many others seriously injured.
The Wessex route, which connects London with Dorset via Hampshire, Surrey, Wiltshire and Devon, recorded 28 near misses involving people at level crossings. One involved a vehicle. Most incidents nationwide involved pedestrians, and distraction from mobile phones is believed to be a key factor.
New safety films have been released featuring first responders and NHS trauma experts, showing the emotional and physical consequences of trespassing or misjudging a crossing.
The campaign comes as the school summer holidays approach, with concerns younger people may be at increased risk. A recent trespass incident on the South West Main Line at New Malden caused more than 13,000 minutes of train delays and cost over £1 million.
Network Rail says people should only cross tracks at designated points, remain alert, and avoid distractions such as mobile phones. In Dorset and surrounding counties, the railway is electrified using a live third rail system, which can cause severe injury or death if touched.
The campaign website, youvstrain.co.uk, provides advice and safety resources.