The town is asking residents to stay off the train tracks.

On Tuesday afternoon a train passing through Okotoks had to come to a screeching stop to avoid hitting two teenagers walking on the tracks.

Fire Chief Ken Thevenot says it's not just on the tracks but people have to be cautious around them as well.

"Even if you're stranding on the right of way when the train passes you, there can be over hang from the train or loose pieces so you can still be hit by it. And if you are walking on the track that is considered trespassing by CP Rail."

Thevenot says these problems have a simple solution.

"The obvious solution is to use better judgment around the tracks and simply there is no need for anyone to be on the tracks or to take that risk. We are asking citizens and individuals to please stay off the tracks."

No one was harmed in the incident and municipal enforcement will be patrolling the tracks just to ensure safety for the next few days.

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