Safety Precautions and Casualties
Rule 68. In case of extraordinary storms or high water, trains must be brought to a stop and a man sent to examine bridges, trestles, culverts, or other places liable to damage, before proceeding. Conductors and Engineers will make careful inquiry at all stopping places and, if necessary, make extra stops to ascertain extent and severity of storms, protecting themselves as provided by the rules and taking no risks. When in doubt as to safety, train will be placed upon a siding until it is ascertained it is safe to proceed.
Northern Pacific Railway Company, Rules and Regulations Operating Department, Effective June 1, 1899.