CSX Supports Annual Health & Safety Fair

CSX Transportation sponsored the 12th annual Health and Safety Fair on Wednesday, May 12, at the National Guard Armory in Erwin, Tenn. The event, which was open to the public as well as to CSX employees, included a free barbeque meal for the estimated 750 people in attendance. More than 50 health and safety vendors took part, including physicians, the city health department, smoking cessation counselors, local wildlife experts, insurance company representatives, firefighters, EMTs, sheriff's department, Operation Lifesaver and LifeFlight helicopter staff. An American Red Cross blood donation van collected 31 units of blood.

CSX volunteers from many departments donated funds and helped to stage the event this year.

"We had five classes of children go through the fair to talk with vendors and see special presentations," said Engineer Mark Hale. "For example, the firefighters took them on a tour through a 'smoke house' that has simulations of storms and a house fire. The children were shown how to protect themselves in those circumstances. They also were allowed to board the LifeFlight helicopter under the guidance of the staff."

Hale said CSX volunteers from many departments — Engineering, Signals, Mechanical, Transportation, Bridges and Buildings — donated funds and helped to stage the event this year. A committee led by Trainmaster Brian Weaver plans and prepares for the Health Fair year 'round.

"Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves," said Hale. "Remarks on the comment cards indicated that people felt they learned a great deal as they got to spend quality time with the vendors."