Cormier wins Operation Lifesaver Canada's 'Roger Cyr' rail safety award

Operation Lifesaver Canada on Friday announced that Mike Cormier of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is the recipient of this year's Roger Cyr Award for Public Rail Safety. The organization recognized Cormier for his efforts to improve rail safety, which helped reduce grade crossing and trespassing incidents in the Maritimes and Nova Scotia.

He helped promote public awareness of rail safety through his work as a Nova Scotia Operation Lifesaver committee member since 2008. Cormier has addressed rail safety at school and community group meetings, conducted crossing blitzes and mock scenarios, and engaged local media, Operation Lifesaver Canada officials said in a press release.

Nova Scotia has one of the best rail safety records in Canada, they said. According to the Transportation Safety Board, the province recorded no incidents in the first quarter after registering only one crossing accident in 2012 and logging no fatalities or serious injuries since 2010. Some of the safety successes can be credited to Cormier, who previously had a long railroading career, mainly as a CN locomotive engineer and safety committee member.

"Cormier's background, knowledge and experience make him a very deserving winner of this year's Roger Cyr award," said Mike Regimbal, Operation Lifesaver Canada's national director. "He understands that all rail crossing and trespassing incidents are avoidable, and his record as a volunteer speaks volumes about his desire to educate people, prevent needless occurrences and save lives."

Launched in 1981 and named after Operation Lifesaver Canada's founder, the Roger Cyr Award is presented via a joint initiative between Operation Lifesaver, the Railway Association of Canada and Transport Canada.