How to survive falling into the subway rails - important rules

2026-06-22

Accidents and tragedies that occurred at the subway station once again remind us of how important it is to know the safety rules thoroughly. Such extreme situations are always unexpected, and panic is the biggest enemy at this time. The public should know exactly the algorithm that will save a person from death in such a situation.

The main danger: what to know about the contact rail The first and most important rule that everyone should know: the power source in the subway usually does not pass through the running rails. The high-voltage (825 volts) conductor is the so-called “third rail” (contact rail), which is hidden directly under the edge of the platform. Even the slightest touch with it is fatal.

How should a person who has fallen into the tracks behave?

Scenario 1: No train in sight or sound

● Do not try to crawl onto the platform! Your instinct is to get out of the place where you fell, but, as already mentioned, there is a high-voltage rail running under the platform. Even accidentally touching it is deadly.

● Run in the direction of the train: Move towards the end of the platform where the electronic clock is located (i.e. where the first carriage of the train stops). There is a special black and white line and steps from which you can safely get out.

● Shout and ask for help: At the same time, attract the attention of the station attendant and passengers so that the power can be turned off in time.

Scenario 2: The train is coming (or is already very close)

● Lie down in the groove between the two rails: this groove is deep enough for the train to pass safely without touching.

● Adopt the correct posture: lie down face down. Your head should be in the direction of the oncoming train - this is necessary so that the air flow does not blow your clothes and does not catch on the moving parts of the train. Keep your arms close to your body, legs together. In the case of a hood or long clothing, try to move under your body.

● Do not move: Even if the train stops above you, do not try to move under any circumstances. The noise and heat will be frightening, but you should remain calm. Wait until rescuers or metro employees release you and give you instructions.

What should eyewitnesses do?

Often, in their desire to help, eyewitnesses make irreparable mistakes.

● Do not jump in to help! This will put your life in danger because of the contact rail. It is much more difficult to save two people.

● Immediately notify the person on duty: shout loudly, call a station employee or police officer to immediately turn off the power to the contact rail.

● Signal the train driver: If the train has already appeared, stand at the edge of the platform (at a safe distance) and make a circular motion with your hand. You can use any object: a bag, a jacket, a mobile phone flashlight or a light-colored cloth. A circular motion is a universal, international signal for the driver to stop.

● Give the correct instructions to the fallen person: a person in a state of shock has difficulty thinking. Instead of trying to push him onto the platform, call him to stay off the edge of the platform and give him a clear command - either he should go into the pit or run towards the clock.

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