BNSF News

Employees Save Man from Exposure to Extreme Cold Temperatures

2010-03-01

Four BNSF employees have received On Guard Awards for saving the life of a senior citizen disoriented and suffering from cold and exposure.

The train crew -- Engineer Jim Myers, Conductor Matt Fossum and Brakeman Wayne Pankonin -- spotted the man lying in the snow near Noyes Junction, Crookston, Minn. First the train crew called 911 and reported the man and his location.

But then the crew went a step further in contacting Switchman Kevin Johnson, who immediately went to the location and helped emergency responders find the man.

Minnesota State Trooper Mike Theis said employees' quick action saved the man's life.

All four employees are based in Grand Forks, N.D.

Bryan Bass, senior manager, Homeland Security, said actions such as this are good examples of living On Guard principles.

"The first great act was calling 911," Bass said. "Employees should also call the Resource Operations Command Center (ROCC) to 'Observe and Report' any time a 911 call is placed in connection with BNSF facilities or property."

Bass also noted that the ROCC can help coordinate sending someone to help emergency responders with directions or other assistance in finding the person or persons who need help.

"All of this is part and parcel of what the On Guard program is all about," Bass said.

BNSF Headquarters

BNSF Railway Company
2650 Lou Menk Dr. 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 961057
Fort Worth, TX 76161-0057
Phone: (817) 352-1000

For more information on the company and its transportation solutions, visit the BNSF Web site at www.bnsf.com