Safety
September 17, 2025
Railroader’s Social Media Safety Tip Delivers Real-World Impact
What started as a simple social media post by Union Pacific Machine Operator Cristobal Martinez in Truckee, California, turned into a life-saving moment hundreds of miles away – reinforcing safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone plays a part.
Martinez shared a safety tip that’s second nature to railroaders but potentially lifesaving for the public: if your vehicle gets stuck on the tracks, exit the vehicle, and call 9-1-1 and the number on the blue Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign that’s posted at every highway-rail crossing.
That advice stuck with a friend he went to high school with who saw the tip while looking at her social media feed. She knew exactly what to do when she saw a confused motorist who drove onto the tracks in Verdi, Nevada. Her quick action encouraged the motorist to exit the vehicle safely and call for help.
“I never imagined a social media post promoting rail safety could have that kind of impact,” said Martinez, who has 10 years of injury-free service under his belt.
He credits his friend for having the presence of mind to act with urgency. Her quick thinking led Union Pacific to stop a train that had just left Sparks, Nevada, on its way to Verdi.
Union Pacific works with communities to enhance rail safety and prevent incidents through education, training, outreach and emergency preparedness – educating thousands annually in partnership with Operation Lifesaver and TRANSCAER.