Best Type of Warning Signal.

This type of crossing warning signal is considered by the Railway Department to be the best yet devised. At the Mangere crossing on the main road south from Auckland a signal of this type was installed recently, and it is understood that the Auckland Automobile Association and other road users are well satisfied about its efficiency for the purpose.

The crossings at the Square in Palmerston North are now similarly equipped, as are several in the South Island.

The decision to so equip the Petone crossing is the final action taken in the protracted negotiations regarding the question of the present necessity for a ramp at the Petone level crossing.

It is claimed that the installation of the new type of crossing signal will reduce the risk at the crossing to a minimum, and that the residuum of risk, applying only to those who do not exercise a reasonable page 43 standard of care when using the crossing, will be so slight that the provision of a ramp at the present time will be obviated, and an expenditure of public funds which the ramp would require, amounting to upwards of £50,000, be avoided.

The Railway Department itself takes no chances in working this crossing with its road vehicles, all buses being required to stop for fifteen seconds before passing over it, in order that the drivers may satisfy themselves that the line is clear.