ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Application of railway signals

Railway signals are like traffic lights for trains. They help the train driver know when it’s safe to go and when they need to stop. There are different types of signals, and they all have different meanings. The signals are usually located along the track and they use different colors and shapes to communicate important information to the train driver.

The first type of signal is the green signal. Green means go and it tells the driver that it’s safe to proceed at normal speed. The next type of signal is the yellow or amber signal. This means that the driver needs to be careful and slow down because there might be something ahead that could cause danger like a broken train ahead, or a track work.

The last type of signal is the red signal, which means stop. The train driver must stop their train immediately and wait for further instructions. This usually happens when there is another train ahead on the same track, or there is an obstacle or danger ahead like a broken track, rocks on the line, or a level crossing being used.

Most railway signals use lights to communicate information to the driver. Green signals have a green light, yellow signals have a yellow light, and red signals have a red light. The lights are arranged in specific ways to give further information (like flashing lights = slow down), and the driver must follow the instructions precisely.

Overall, railway signals are very important because they help keep trains and their passengers safe. Without signals, trains would not know when it is safe to proceed and accidents could happen. So the next time you see a railway signal, remember that it's just like a traffic light for trains, and you'll know what it means!