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DRAPER — The Utah Transit Authority and Unified Fire teamed up to practice rescue skills today along the upcoming Draper TRAX line.
Before people hop on TRAX trains, crews are required to train so that when a real accident happens, they know what to expect.
Tuesday, officials simulated a crash similar to what would happen if a drunk driver hit a TRAX train. In the simulation, the driver was thrown underneath the train from his van. Through the broken glass and wreckage, crews worked to rescue the 250-pound body.
"This is an opportunity for us to practice under a controlled environment," said Unified Fire Authority Battalion Chief Clint Smith.
Trains are tricky for crews, Smith said, because they pose a unique set of challenges. Crews have to make sure they are familiar with the trains and the electricity involved.
Simulations are also a chance for different emergency response teams to learn how to work together, especially before the new line opens soon.
Related:
New Draper TRAX station to feature historic rail car
UTA and the city of Draper have partnered to build a historic rail car exhibit at the Draper Town Center TRAX station. A historic rail car that has been refurbished was delivered to the site, picked up by crane and lowered onto the track."Any new form of transportation comes (with) challenges," Smith said. "Our role is to be the most prepared to deal with that."
In 2012, UTA reported 22 car-vs.-TRAX crashes — nine people were injured and one person died. For FrontRunner, two cars crashed into trains and two people were injured.
So far this year, there have been three cars crash into TRAX trains, leading to two injuries and one fatality. No FrontRunner train-vs.-car accidents have been reported.
UTA said it is federally mandated to hold safety trainings before lines open up. Lt. Gary McGrath with UTA Police evaluated his team today.
"Well, there's no certification. It's kind of ‘practice makes perfect,' " McGrath said.
The Draper area near the new TRAX line is heavily populated and buzzing with residents and businesses. While emergency crews practice to save lives, UTA is working to get people in the area on-board with TRAX train safety before the line opens in August.
"Pay attention to the signals," said McGrath. "Look for flashing lights, the gate arms, the bells ringing."
Those caught violating safety procedures will get a citation from UTA police and will likely be required to take safety classes.
