Travelling By Train

Trains are a type of public transportation. That is, trains are able to move a large number of people at one time. Sometimes public transportation is called “mass transportation” because things like buses, trains and planes can move masses of people all at once. Trains are also a relatively environmentally friendly type of public transportation because while trains full of people do leave off some degree of pollution, they do not pollute as much as, for example, the equivalent number of cars it would take to transport the same number of people.

Types of Trains

Trains are used for two main purposes: to haul freight (goods) or to transport people. Freight trains are a lot like lorries, they move goods from place to place. Both freight trains and trains that transport people can be either long distance or shorter distance. Short distances trains are sometimes referred to as commuter trains. Trains also differ depending upon the type of fuel used. In the past trains were fuelled by steam, though now most trains are fuelled either by diesel or electricity. When it comes to determining if trains are environmentally friendly there are a number of variables that must be looked at including whether or not a train is full, where/how far the train is going and what kind of fuel the train uses. In general, trains that run on diesel emit carbon dioxide, though trains that run on electricity also emit fossil fuels so they are not fully “clean” methods of transportation. However, in relation to other forms of transportation that also emits pollutants trains can emit less and therefore be more environmentally friendly.

Safety on Trains

Riding on trains is one way that you can help keep the earth safe from excess pollution, but whenever you are a train passenger you will want to take care that you keep yourself safe as well. Never stand in between train carriages, put your arms or legs out of train windows or hang out open train doors. Stay seated when the train is moving and if you are travelling alone on a train try to sit near an aisle and near other passengers. If possible, try to sit near the front of the train where the conductor is located. Stowe your gear in the overhead racks provided or in the designated area at the end of the carriage. Remember to keep any important documents like your ticket or passport, as well as your wallet or purse with you at all times. Don’t leave these items unattended, and do not agree to supervise anyone else’s bags either. If you need a member of the train staff in the event of an emergency, use the call buttons provided. Be sure to only exit the train when it has full stopped and of course mind the gap.

Travelling by train is a relatively eco-friendly method of travel, and it is easy to stay safe on a public train if you use common sense. The next time you want to travel, see if you can use a train or another method of transportation to cut down on pollution and increase the family fun factor of your trip!