Whistle Signals and What They Say
When engineers sound the horn of a train, it carries a message. Below are the examples of sounds used by engineers and what those sounds say to others.
short sound of horn (toot) long sound of horn
Sound
|
What it means
|
Applying brakes. Stopping. | |
Engineers answer to any signal not otherwise provided for. | |
When standing, about to back up. When running, stopping at next station. |
|
Alarm for persons or animals on the track. | |
Approaching stations, junctions, and railroad crossings. | |
A second section is following. | |
Flagman protect rear of train. | |
Releasing brakes. Proceeding. | |
Approaching meeting-points or waiting-points of trains | |
Flagman may return from west or south. | |
Flagman may return from east or north. |
http://www.railfanclub.org/fieldguide3whistle.asp viewed December 29, 2002