What action should be taken if a train encounters a signal with flashing lights?

When a train encounters a signal with flashing lights, the appropriate action is to stop the train and assess the situation. Flashing lights typically indicate a warning or a condition that requires immediate attention from the engineer. It signifies that the train may need to stop or proceed with caution, depending on the specific railroad signal rules in place.

Stopping allows the engineer to evaluate the surroundings, determine if there are any hazards ahead, or understand the reason behind the signal's indication. This is crucial for maintaining safety and ensuring that the train is responding appropriately to any potential risks or changes in the operational environment.

Continuing at the same speed disregards the warning conveyed by the flashing lights, which could lead to dangerous situations. Contacting the dispatcher can be an important step afterward, but the priority must always be to ensure the train is safe and properly managed before proceeding. Manually changing the signal is not an appropriate action for the engineer and could disrupt established signal protocols and safety measures.