When a train or engine is stopped by an emergency stop, what is the first action required?

When an emergency stop occurs, placing lighted fusees on adjacent tracks is a critical action that ensures safety on the railroad. This step serves as a warning signal to any approaching trains or equipment that there is a hazard ahead. By using fusees, which are bright flares, you effectively communicate to others that they should slow down or stop to avoid further incidents, thus preventing potential collisions or accidents.

This action is part of the emergency protocols that prioritize not only the safety of the train and crew involved but also other trains that may be approaching the stopped train. It establishes a clear visual signal to alert anyone in the vicinity about the emergency situation. Other options, while important, may not prioritize immediate safety in the same manner as deploying fusees.