Do THREE of the following:
Name three types of modern freight trains. Explain why unit trains are more efficient than mixed freight trains.
Name one Class I or regional railroad. Explain what major cities it serves, the locations of major terminals, service facilities, and crew change points, and the major commodities it carries.
Using models or pictures, identify 10 types of railroad freight or passenger cars. Explain the purpose of each type of car.
Explain how a modern diesel or electric locomotive develops power. Explain the terms dynamic braking and radial steering trucks.
Do the following:
Explain the purpose and formation of Amtrak. Explain, by the use of a timetable, a plan for making a trip by rail between two cities at least 500 miles apart. List the times of departure and arrival at your destination, the train number, and the type of service you want.
List and explain the various forms of public/mass transit using rail as the fixed guide path.
Do ONE of the following:
Name four departments of a railroad company. Describe what each department does.
Tell about the opportunities in railroading that interest you most and why.
Name four rail support industries, Describe the function of each one.
With your parent's and counselor's approval, interview someone employed in the rail industry. Learn what that person does and how this person became interested in railroading. Find out what type of schooling and training are required for this position.
Explain the purpose of Operation Lifesaver and its mission.
Do THREE of the following:
List five safety precautions that help make trains safer for workers and passengers.
Explain to your merit badge counselor why railroad rights-of-way are important for safety.
List 10 safety tips to remember when you are near a railroad track (either on the ground or on a station platform) or aboard a train.
Tell your counselor about the guidelines for conduct that should be followed when you are near or on railroad property. Explain the dangers of trespassing on railroad property.
Tell what an automobile driver can do to safely operate a car at grade crossings, and list three things an automobile driver should never do at a grade crossing.
Tell how to report a malfunction of grade crossing warning devices.
List safety precautions a pedestrian should follow at a public crossing.
Explain the appearance and meaning of the following warning signs and devices: advance warning sign, pavement markings, crossbucks, flashing red lights, crossing gates.
Do EACH of the following:
Explain how railroad signals operate and show two basic signal types using color and configuration.
Explain the meaning of three whistle signals.
Describe a way to signal a train for an emergency stop.
Explain the use and function of the EOTD (end-of-train device) or FRED (Flashing rear end device) used on the last car of most trains.