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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
On Sunday, July 21, in Australia, a father and his 2-year-old daughter lost their lives, mown down by a train. One of the twins miraculously survived by falling between the tracks of the railway. Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo, reminds us of the safety rules to follow in train stations.
This tragedy reminds us of the importance of good conduct rules around railway tracks.
The pram carrying the twins falls onto the railway tracks
The incident occurred on the platforms of Carlton station, south of Sydney, because the pram occupied by the twins probably “rolled” and then “fell” onto a railway track.
According to police, one of the girls died instantly, as did the 40-year-old father, “who rushed to their aid” confirms Paul Dunstan, head of the New South Wales State Police.
The other twin, luckily, ended up between the tracks of the railway line when the train passed over her, so she was not injured.
The causes of the incident remain to be clarified.
The causes of both deaths are still under investigation. However, Paul Dunstan suggests that it may have been a “gust of wind”.
“Was it a gust of wind? We are not sure but it seems that the pram immediately started rolling towards the railway track.“, he revealed at a press conference, before adding: “He (the father) lost his life, but it was an incredibly courageous and heroic act.“.
The mother and the surviving little girl were taken to hospital.
The 10 safety rules near railway tracks
Whether you are near a train, a tram or a metro, the rules are the same. Here are all the rules to follow to avoid putting yourself in danger:
- 1. Always stay away from the edge of the dock. “Do not approach, even when no train is visible. The speed can suck you in. Someone can push you… Be especially careful if you are with children. Hold their hands on the platforms“, recalls the medical director of Doctisimo.
- 2. Use only the designated crossings to cross the tracks. : “underpasses, footbridges or planked passages… Never cross the tracks outside of these secure areas“, says the emergency doctor.
- 3. Respect the signs. “If a red light is flashing, it means a train is approaching. Do not enter“, recalls the doctor.
- 4. Be alert and aware of your surroundings. “Avoid distractions such as using the phone or wearing headphones near the tracks“, underlines Dr Gérald Kierzek.
- 5. Never board a train “after the departure signal sounds or the doors close. It is too late and dangerous. Also, do not run after the train (risk of falling and/or heart attack)“, he specifies.
- 6. Never go down “of a moving train“, warns the medical director of Doctisimo.
- 7. Do not approach overhead lines or electrical cables“even if they have fallen to the ground. They present a risk ofelectrocutioneven without direct contact” warns the emergency doctor.
- 8. Never walk on the rails. “They can be electrified,” he says. the doctor.
- 9. Do not explore areas that are off-limits to the public. “such as tunnels, bridges or abandoned buildings”recalls Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
- 10. Finally, in stations, do not walk on the platforms. “with some scooters or other wheeled vehicles. Do not sit on the edge of the platforms”, concludes the expert.
Slideshow: Children: domestic accidents, 10 life-saving actions