Maryland’s rail network is the backbone of our economy, and in Baltimore, this could not be truer. It could be argued that the once-mighty B&O Railroad (now part of railroad operator CSX) led to our city’s enormous growth in the 19th century. Today, the vital Port of Baltimore — the subject of much attention this year due to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse — is served by two Class I railroads and one shortline rail company.

In 2019, the Maryland Department of Transportation published its 20-year vision for our state’s transportation system, noting rail as a critical aspect of our future. These railroads make significant contributions to state and local taxes and investments in our communities that they serve. While we should continue to support this vital industry, we must also take time to highlight rail safety in our state.

CSX, one of the two Class I railroads operating in Maryland and at the Port of Baltimore, contributes heavily to our local and state economies. According to an economic impact study on the port’s CSX Curtis Bay Piers, they provide 1,400 jobs and generate $335 million in economic activity for the state and region. Norfolk Southern, the other major railroad serving the area, has multiple Maryland facilities that contribute jobs, taxes, and general economic activity.

Though rail offers many benefits as the most economical and efficient way to move goods long distances, it obviously comes with some risks. According to data from the Federal Railroad Administration, there were 1,378 pedestrian rail trespass fatalities and injuries nationwide in 2023, with Maryland accounting for 17 casualties — ranked 21st among U.S. states. While that number may not seem particularly large, these are preventable deaths. And as an active chief officer and president of the Baltimore Fire Officers, Local 964, it is my priority to prevent these tragic, avoidable incidents from happening in our community.

The path to improving rail safety starts with education. Last week’s Rail Safety Week, now dubbed “See Tracks? Think Train,” provided an opportunity to reflect on what can be done in the community to make everyone more educated and safer.

CSX is one of the major freight railroads that participated in the public advocacy campaign last week and has taken steps to put safety at the forefront of their work. They have created a free online training program to educate emergency responders on how to approach rail incidents safely. They also introduced a leading-edge Responder Incident Training train designed to train fire departments and emergency personnel throughout CSX’s 23-state network. The train has previously made its way to Baltimore and stayed at the historic B&O Railroad Museum while training first responders in the community.

But CSX is not alone in its commitment to rail safety. Organizations like Operation Lifesaver, the hosts of “See Tracks? Think Train” week, also partner with the other major Class I railroads as well as federal government agencies and transportation organizations. The collaborative effort is a week-long observance to prevent railroad crossings and trespass incidents, as well as concentrate public attention on the need for rail safety.

Though it’s just one week, the lessons should be carried out year-round. Public leaders should get involved more to publicize this great initiative. The public should know the basic dangers of interacting with railroads that they might forget. And though our first responders are well trained, they are likely not trained in the specifics of a rail-related accident. Rail safety is especially important in a state like Maryland, where over 722 miles of track run through dozens of communities.

Already in a few decades of work, Operation Lifesaver has helped reduce rail collisions from about 12,000 incidents in 1972 to approximately 2,201 in 2022. That’s an impressive achievement, but our goal should always be zero. Every incident, no matter how small the number may be, is one too many.

Even though “See Tracks? Think Train” week has passed, everyone must do their part by taking the time to educate themselves and those around them.

Joshua L. Fannon is president of the Local 964 union of the Baltimore Fire Officers, part of the International Association of Firefighters.