CSX Transportation officials will be speaking to Twin Counties residents next week about the dangers they see on the railroad tracks every day.

The events are in honor of National Operation Lifesaver week, dedicated to informing the public about safety around railroads and trains.

"Anytime we can get to a group that will sit down and listen to us, we have a message for them," said Nelson High, supervisor of community affairs and safety for CSX Transportation.

High will be part of a "Stay Off, Stay Away, Stay Alive" program for children at Braswell Memorial Library at 4 p.m. Tuesday in the Warner Meeting Room. The event is open to the public.

The program teaches children basic tips on train safety, such as why people shouldn't walk on the tracks or throw objects at trains.

"Anytime is train time," High said.

If a train is moving at 50 mph, it takes the length of a football field for the train to come to a stop, which means it is crucial for pedestrians and drivers to be aware of their surroundings, he said.

The transportation company also will hold a press conference at the Rocky Mount Train Station at 12:30 p.m. Monday to get the message out about the meaning of the week. City officials from Charlotte to Rocky Mount will ride a train into the station before addressing the issue.

"There are 42 trains every 24 hours that go through Rocky Mount," High said. "That's why it's important to get this message out to the children, and not only the children, but the adults."