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2/27/2026
Metra will conduct 41 Operation Lifesaver "safety blitzes" this year as part of the Chicago commuter railroad's efforts to raise public awareness about safe behavior near train tracks.
During each event, Metra employees will visit one of 243 Metra stations during the morning rush hour to distribute educational materials about grade crossing safety, answer passengers' questions and listen to their safety concerns, Metra officials said in a press release. A short video about grade crossing safety will play while passengers wait to board their trains. Metra also invites local emergency responders and public officials to attend the events.
This year, Metra also will distribute safety materials at schools located near Metra track.
In addition, Metra Police will conduct enforcement blitzes throughout the railroad's six-county coverage area. The police will issue citations and warnings to drivers and pedestrians who ignore gates and warning devices, Metra officials said.
The schedule and location of this year's Metra safety blitzes is available here.
The blitzes are held annually to address the fact that Illinois ranks fifth in the nation for train versus vehicle collisions at grade crossings and third for trespassing fatalities. Last year, 25 people died and 43 people sustained injuries in grade crossing incidents in the state, according to the Federal Railroad Administration, said Metra officials. Another 44 people died and 24 were injured while trespassing along railroad rights of way in Illinois in 2025.