What do smart commuters know? Rail safety nonprofit Operation Lifesaver (OL) is helping people answer that question with a new animated video for light and commuter rail passengers that prepares them to use rail transit systems safely every day. The American Public Transportation Association estimates that the number of commuters is rising 3.5% each year.

“We developed ‘What Smart Commuters Know,’ a fast-paced, fun new digital tool to help riders understand the importance of avoiding distraction on their daily commute, whether on a subway, light rail, or commuter rail system,” said Operation Lifesaver President Helen M. Sramek. “You can forward the video via email or share it with your friends on Facebook,” she added.

Operation Lifesaver Education and Training Director Wende Corcoran noted that “What Smart Commuters Know” is a versatile educational tool. “This three-and-a-half minute video will be used by our trained volunteers during free safety presentations in their communities via computers or iPads. It will also be available on our website for viewing by the general public.”

The video was developed through a grant from the Federal Transit Administration. OL has partnered with the agency for several years on campaigns to educate commuters about safety precautions that must be taken around transit systems including commuter and light rail, street cars, trolleys and buses. OL completed safety campaigns this summer with the Memphis, Tenn.; Denton, Texas; and Atlanta transit agencies and is currently planning additional campaigns for the fall.

Learn more about the video and OL’s work on transit safety at www.oli.org/passengerrail. You can also access the digital presentation at http://bit.ly/StviYU.