CHETWYND, B.C. - The District of Chetwynd is encouraging residents to stay alert around railway crossings as communities across Canada recognize Rail Safety Week from September 21 to 27.
Mayor Allen Courtoeille has officially proclaimed Rail Safety Week in Chetwynd, joining a national campaign led by Operation Lifesaver and railway partners aimed at reducing preventable injuries and deaths involving trains and railway property.
The proclamation comes as new figures released by the B.C. Coroners Service show a concerning increase in accidental railway deaths across the province this year.
According to the coroner’s service, 13 unintentional railway deaths were recorded in British Columbia between January 1 and August 30, 2026.
That compares with six deaths during the same period in 2025, more than doubling the number of fatalities.
“We have seen an alarming increase in unintentional railway deaths so far in 2026,” B.C. Chief Coroner Dr. Jatinder Baidwan said in a statement released Monday.
252 railway crossing incidents occurred across Canada in 2025, resulting in 69 deaths and 60 serious injuries.
It highlights the importance of educating motorists and pedestrians about railway safety, including obeying warning signs and signals and remaining off railway rights-of-way.
Operation Lifesaver, a national rail-safety organization, works with rail companies, governments, Indigenous communities, police services and media organizations to raise awareness about the dangers associated with railway crossings and tracks.
Transportation and Transit Minister Mike Farnworth said the annual campaign serves as a reminder that everyone has a role to play in preventing railway tragedies.
“Whether you’re driving, cycling or walking, take a moment to look, listen and follow instructions at railway crossings,” Farnworth said.
CN Police Chief Shawn Will also emphasized that many rail-related incidents can be prevented through safe behaviour around tracks and crossings.
Rail Safety Week runs through September 27, with communities across the country taking part in awareness campaigns aimed at reducing collisions, injuries and fatalities involving trains.
With files from CTV News’ Todd Coyne