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124 Signs and Symbols Along the Way
Signs and Symbols Along The Way
You will see numerous signs and symbols beside the tracks throughout your journey. Although these codes are intended for locomotive engineers, passengers are always interested to learn their meanings.
TMileposts
Windsock
Windsocks indicate what direction the wind is blowing and how strong the wind is travelling. Windsocks are also useful just in case there is a chemical spillage.
Slide Detectors
Wire fences along the sides of steep hills serve as a slide detection system. The wires will break when there is a slide, sending signals to the engineers to warn of an obstacle on the tracks ahead.
Flanger Boards
These signs warn snowplow operators of obstacles hidden by snow.
Alongside the tracks, usually one mile apart, are signs with numbers mounted on metal poles that tell your present location and how far you are from a major rail centre. These are called
mileposts, and you can use them to figure out the train’s speed (see page 129). Mileposts also help passengers anticipate points of interest.
Speed Limit Signs
Train speed limit signs comprise two numbers. The number on the top is the speed limit for passenger trains, and the one on the bottom is the speed limit for freight trains. Freight trains may not exceed 60 miles per hour.
TTTPropane Tanks
A switch heater fueled by propane is used to melt ice from track switches. It warms the switches, preventing malfunction.