On the afternoon of November 20th, members of the Rail Auxiliary Team met at the Reno Amtrak Station to celebrate a most notable occasion. This occasion was for the 80th birthday of one of Rail Auxiliary's favorite Amtrak conductors-the one and only Lenny!
After a rousing rendition of "Happy…
Foamers Set an Example: Good or Bad
If you’ve spent any time around railroads, you’ve probably heard the term “foamer.” It’s a nickname—sometimes affectionate, sometimes teasing—for die-hard train enthusiasts who “foam at the mouth” with excitement whenever a locomotive rolls by. They kn…
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment when a train finally arrives — the rumble, the gust of wind, the doors sliding open, and the crowd surging forward. Everyone wants to get a good seat, make a quick connection, or simply…
If you’ve ever stood on a train platform, you’ve seen it — that bright yellow line running along the edge, sometimes raised, sometimes textured, and often paired with the familiar announcement: “Please stand behind the yellow line.”
It’s so ordinary that most people hardly notice it anymore. …
This year, we took our show on the road to the Carlin Nevada Truck Rodeo, and let me tell you, it was a comedy of errors and triumphs. There’s so much to share, and it all comes back to one thing: connecting with people and making a real difference.
We were there to teach railroad safety, an…
Success in our work isn’t just about showing up when something happens — it’s about being out there, day after day, tuned in and paying attention. That means being the eyes and ears on the ground, noticing the small details, and knowing exactly what to look for before an issue becomes a problem.
You're sitting in traffic. The light ahead is red, cars are stacked in every direction, and you’re inching forward bit by bit. Suddenly, you realize you're approaching a railroad crossing.
What now?
Heavy traffic …
Riding a bike is a great way to stay healthy, help the environment, and explore the great outdoors. But when your route takes you near train tracks or crossings, it’s time to shift gears—no…
If you’ve ever been out riding your ATV and come across a pair of railroad tracks, you might have felt that urge: This would be a fas…
In an age where capturing the perfect photo can earn you likes, followers, and a fleeting moment of fame, it’s easy to forget one simple truth: no photo is worth your life. Among the most dangerous trends in photography is…
🚨 See Something, Say Something: A Simple Action That Could Save Lives Near Railroad Tracks 🚨
If you spend any time outdoors — hiking, biking, running, or just enjoying nature — chances are you’ve crossed paths with a railroad track. Maybe it’s a quiet stretch near a river, a hidden trestle in the…
🚫 Why You Should Never Go Into Train Tunnels (Even if the They Look Cool)
Hey hikers, railfans, explorers, and curious adventurers —
We get it. There’s something mysterious and enticing about train tunnels. They’re dark, dramatic, and are often in some of the most scenic parts of the outdoors.…
Could this be your story?
How a quiet morning hike turned into a moment I'll never forget.
There’s something sacred about early mornings in the woods. That in-between time when the mist still hugs the ground, birds are barely stretching their wings, and you feel like the only person alive. Tha…
Talking to Your Kids About Train Track Safety: Walking on the Tracks
As parents, we strive to teach our children about safety in all aspects of their lives—whether it’s looking both ways before crossing the street, wearing helmets when riding bikes, or avoiding strangers. One crucial yet often ov…
The mission of the Rail Auxiliary Team of Washoe County, NV is to help ensure trains move safely and securely through communities; we provide trained volunteers that efficiently and effectively act on all situations that affect this mission. One of the services that we provide is Railway Monitoring …
Planning an event is a complex process, especially when your designated route includes railroad tracks or crossings. Whether it’s a parade, marathon, charity run, or other community event, ensuring the safety of participants and m…
Fishing is a popular hobby that combines relaxation with the thrill of the catch. Fishermen often want secluded spots near water bodies, in hopes of finding the perfect fishing hole. However, one location that should NEVER be considered for fishing is a railroad bridge. Though looking convenient…
If you are out in nature and see a railroad emergency but are unable to find a crossing nearby with a Blue ENS sign, there is another place to get information that will help the railroad in understanding your location. A…
Railroad crossings can present unique challenges for drivers, especially when dealing with vehicles that have low ground clearance. Low-slung sports cars, long trailers, buses, and other vehicles with minimal ground clearance are par…