British Transport Police is urging West Lothian parents and carers to warn children and young people of the dangers of trespassing after several incidents in Scotland.
Recent incidents in Musselburgh and Dunfermline have prompted BTP to reinforce awareness around the dangers of the railway.
The incidents included two groups of youths and a family walking a dog across a railway line between Longannet and Dunfermline.
British Transport Police is also urging parents and carers to ensure that their children are following the covid guidelines of staying at home and only leaving their home for essential purposes.
BTP Inspector, Bryan O’Neill, said: “In relation to these particular issues the key message here is that this is a live line and it should be treated as such which means the public need to stay off the track.
“Too many times we have seen the tragic consequences of young people ignoring the warnings about trespassing on the railway and taking risks that have resulted in terrible injuries or death, so it’s vital that parents play their part and ensure they know where their children are and what they are up to.
“Passengers continue to be our eyes and ears and they can help us by reporting crimes and concerns by texting 61016.”
Mark Henderson, Network Rail senior community engagement manager, said: “Trespassing on the railway can result in life-changing or even fatal injuries.
“We work closely with the British Transport Police to educate local communities about the dangers on the railway and would urge the public to keep off the tracks.”
BTP and Network Rail run a hard-hitting safety campaign, You Vs Train, which highlights the devastating consequences that trespassing on the railway can have.
Find out more at youvstrain.co.uk
