APTA Rail Conference

Denver, CO

Preventing Rail Suicides and Trespasser Strikes

June 12, 2018, 8:30 – 10 a.m.

Suicide in the United States has surged to the highest levels in nearly 30 years, a federal data analysis has found, with increases in every age group except older adults. While suicide is a community issue, railroads and transit agencies are increasing their attention to this growing problem. Recently-released U.S. government statistics reveal that railroad grade crossing incidents and rail trespass casualties increased in 2017, as well. Join a discussion on efforts and partnerships agencies have designed for the prevention of suicides and trespasser strikes.

Remedial Actions to Prevent Suicides on Commuter and Metro Rail Systems
Patrick Sherry, Ph.D., Professor, University of Denver

Moderator: Rebecca A. Zelt, WSO-CSSD, Secretary, Safety Coordinating Council; Superintendent of Rail Safety, King County Metro Transit Division/Department of Transportation, Seattle, WA

Mental Health Awareness & Trespass Prevention Strategies in Rail Transit

Hilary E. Konczal, CSSD-WSO, CSM, CST, Chair, Commuter Rail Safety & Security Subcommittee; Chief Safety and Environmental Officer, Metra, Chicago, IL

Preventing Rail-Related Injuries and Fatalities through Public Education and Outreach

Mike McCoy, State Coordinator, Colorado Operation Lifesaver, Severance, CO

Update on U.S. Rail Trespassing & Suicide: Research Findings & Needs

Joyce Rose, Principal Consultant - Transit & Rail Safety, WSP USA, Baltimore, MD