How should an engineer respond to a red signal alongside the track?

When an engineer encounters a red signal alongside the track, the correct response is to stop the train and contact dispatch. This signal indicates that the train must come to a complete stop to ensure safety and compliance with operational protocols.

Stopping allows the engineer to evaluate the situation ahead, as a red signal typically means there is an obstruction, maintenance work, or another train on the same track. Communicating with dispatch is crucial for getting further instructions or clearance to proceed. This action is necessary to maintain safety not only for the crew but also for passengers and any other trains in the vicinity.

Other responses, such as continuing at the same speed or reducing speed gradually, would be unsafe and could lead to serious accidents. While alerting passengers of a delay might be important from a customer service perspective, it doesn't address the immediate safety protocols required in response to a red signal.