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Several railroads operating in the state recently collaborated to provide Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Training Academy in Pearl, Miss., a full set of signals to assist in officers' crossing-safety training, according to a news item posted July 30 on Kansas City Southern's Web site.


Since 1985, KCS Manager of Public Safety Allen Pepper has taught a grade-crossing safety course at the academy covering railroad laws, trespassing prevention measures and incident investigation procedures.


Although tracks are painted on a road, the academy's simulated crossing includes all markings and signage associated with Mississippi railroads, and the newly installed signals operate as if an actual train is activating them.


The academy plans to use the signals to help law-enforcement trainees better understand a grade-crossing environment and how to obtain information needed for police reports.


Meanwhile, Louisiana State Police is coordinating efforts to create a similar simulated crossing to help train its officers, KCS said.