The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 1, Issue 7 (December 15, 1926)
Safety Devices
Safety Devices.
In the United States safety devices in the operation of trains are not up to modern high standards except in thickly populated districts in the Eastern States. Train control officers regulate the movements of trains, arrange crossings, etc. When the train stops on a main line for any purpose the guard's assistant runs back a few hundred yards and plants a “Flare” on the track. When the train is again ready to proceed he lights the “flare” and then rejoins the train. Engine-drivers of following trains estimate the clearance of the train ahead knowing that the flare takes a certain time to burn out.