Mississauga marks Rail Safety Week with crossing warning

Mississauga is reminding road users to cross railway tracks only at designated crossings during Rail Safety Week, which runs Sept. 21 to 27, 2026. Trains can travel at speeds of up to 140 km/h and may need as much as two kilometres to come to a complete stop, the city says.

The city says trains can move faster than they appear and may be much closer than you think. With more trains and more people moving across Mississauga every day, it says staying alert at rail crossings is essential.

Railway crossings have signs and signals to alert all road users of tracks and approaching trains. When you approach a crossing, obey the lights, bells, gates and other warning signals.

If a train is approaching or warning lights are flashing, stop behind the gate or marked stop line and wait until the train has fully passed. If the lights begin flashing after you have started crossing, continue across the tracks safely.

School buses are required to stop at least five metres from the nearest rail at all railway crossings, even if the signals are not flashing and the gates are open. While stopped, the driver must open the bus door and look and listen for any approaching trains. If you are driving behind a school bus, be prepared to slow down.

For drivers, the city says to make sure there is enough space on the other side of the tracks for your vehicle. Trains move faster than expected and quietly, so you might not hear them coming. Never rush to cross ahead of a train.

Cyclists and e-scooter users should wait until all signals have stopped and the gates are fully raised before crossing. The city says never ride on the gravel service roads or green spaces alongside tracks, because it is illegal and dangerous. Slow down when crossing tracks or consider dismounting and walking your bike or e-scooter across.

Pedestrians should avoid distractions like cell phones and headphones when approaching a rail crossing. Trains travel in both directions and some crossings have multiple tracks, so just because one train has passed doesn't mean another isn't fast approaching. Cross only when all signals have stopped and the way ahead is clear.

Whether you're walking, cycling, riding an e-scooter or driving, the city says to always cross railway tracks at designated crossings. These are the only legal and safe places to cross. Wait until all warning signals have stopped and double-check for trains from both directions.

Rail Safety Week runs Sept. 21 to 27, 2026.