photo of a train on tracks
Join the Force
Business. Community. Heritage. With this much riding on our lines, safety and security come first.
To report suspicious activity, contact NS Police at .

Join Protect the Line Today

As a Protect the Line member, you will keep an eye out for potential issues relating to equipment maintenance, track obstructions, trespassing, and vandalism, and report those issues to Norfolk Southern Police. Together, we can protect the line from incidents that threaten security and safety.





Safety Guidelines

Keeping America's rail transportation network safe is a high-priority for today's railroad industry.

PROTECT THE LINE encourages citizens and rail fans to report suspicious activities, trespassers or individuals to NS’ Police Communications Center.

However, when pursuing your hobby you do not have the right to trespass on railroad property or rights-of-way. It is illegal and dangerous and will be viewed by law enforcement as a criminal offense subject to arrest and prosecution.

  • Do not take photographs of military trains and equipment.
  • Only take photographs or view trains from public locations.
  • When taking photographs from public railroad crossings, stay at least 15 feet away from the nearest rail. This rule applies for staged "photo run-bys" as well.
  • Cooperate fully with railroad police or other law enforcement officers when contacted.
  • If reporting an issue at a crossing, please take note of the DOT crossing number located on the crossbucks.
  • If suspicious activities are noted, report it to railroad or local law enforcement officers. DO NOT TAKE ANY FURTHER ACTION!
  • I understand that trespassing is a criminal offense and that I may be arrested and prosecuted if I trespass on railroad property. I will not trespass on any railway property or right-of-way.