Amtrak Now Prohibiting Passengers From Bringing Galaxy Note 7 Devices On Trains
First planes, now trains: the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is no longer welcome on Amtrak.
The company announced the update on Twitter, saying the recalled devices are not permitted on Amtrak trains, as well as on Thruway buses, stations, and platforms, because of the risk that they’ll catch fire.
“The safety of our passengers and employees is paramount,” Amtrak said in a statement (via CNET). “Effective immediately, Samsung Galaxy Note 7 cell phones are not permitted on Amtrak property due to potential serious safety risks. This ban includes Amtrak trains, Thruway buses, facilities, stations, platforms, Amtrak vehicles, and as an item carried within a vehicle on Auto Train.”
The decision follows the Federal Aviation Administration’s move last week banning Note 7 devices from all commercial flights.
Ever since Samsung officially recalled the devices, the company has been urging consumers to exchange their devices before they get to the airport.
“We have encouraged airlines to issue similar communications directly to their passengers,” the company said in a statement upon the FAA’s airplane ban. “Any Galaxy Note 7 owner should visit their carrier and retail store to participate in the U.S. Note 7 Refund and Exchange Program now. We realize this is an inconvenience but your safety has to remain our top priority.”
It’s unclear what Amtrak employees will do if they find a passenger with a Note 7, but if you’d rather avoid being phoneless, it’s a good idea to exchange your device before riding the rails.
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