Dangers of the LIRR Third Rail: 650 Volts and Safety Protocols

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) uses a third rail electrification system carrying 650 volts DC. Contact is extremely hazardous.

Consequences of Contact

• Severe burns (entry/exit wounds)
• Cardiac arrest (ventricular fibrillation)
• Internal organ damage
• Neurological injury
• Death – often instantaneous

If Someone Contacts the Third Rail

1. DO NOT TOUCH THE VICTIM – you will become part of the circuit.
2. Call 911 immediately.
3. Alert LIRR/MTA personnel (station agent, train crew) to cut power.
4. If power is confirmed off and you are trained, begin CPR until EMS arrives.

Prevention

• Never walk on or near tracks.
• Cross only at designated crossings; look both ways.
• Do not touch any trackside equipment.
• Heed warning signs and fences.

The third rail is unforgiving; awareness and distance are the only sure protections.