Red means 'immediate danger' . Trains stop without exception . Flares should only be used when injured persons or disabled vehicles are on the tracks or at a grade crossing and cannot be moved, or when a condition is discovered that could cause derailment. Train schedules cannot be counted on to assure safety. While passenger trains do have published schedules, they are often off schedule .
Freight trains have no schedules, and move 'anyplace, anytime'.
When tracks must be crossed, look in both directions every time each rail is crossed . When crossing more than one set of tracks, stop after the first set, then proceed again to look each way before crossing the second set. Railroad equipment is not always heard, especially if there is other noise. A coasting or slow moving train may not give adequate warning. Do not cross directly in front of a standing train.