In September 2003, seven transit agencies across the country received packets of Light Rail safety education materials, culmination of a year-long program by FTA and Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) , with significant assistance by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).

Light Rail is one of the fastest growing modes of transit, but development of a safety education program whose characters, situations, and messages are widely applicable is challenging. Unlike traditional rail or buses, light rail varies enormously in operation and infrastructure. With quieter cars, and more frequent, bi-directional service often operating right on city streets, light rail doesn't lend itself to traditional rail safety programs. And since they are heavily locally funded and obviously cater to a local clientele, light rail outreach programs must reflect local needs and sensitivities.

Here was the challenge: Develop a safety education program usable by all light rail agencies. Messages had to resonate across widely divergent systems and the character had to be sensitive to riderships' variety of ethnicities, ages, income levels, disabilities, and both genders.

OLI invited 44 transit agencies across the country to participate in developing this program. Ultimately, 23 agencies responded, and Earl P. Nutt was born -- a safety squirrel who travels the country, accompanied by characters that reflect the local agencies' mascots as well as ridership. Earl is "cute" enough to attract kids, but edgy enough appeal to an older crowd. Collateral materials (cartoon, video/audio/print artwork, activity book, and speakers handbook) are distributed gratis, designed to be used as individual agencies like, and OL presenters can also assist in outreach. Testing and evaluation of the program will take place throughout 2004, and development of a full-fledged training program, comprehensive presenters' manual, translation of materials into various languages, and more extensive outreach are planned for 2004.