What does a yellow signal generally indicate?

A yellow signal is an important aspect of railway signaling, serving as a crucial indicator for train operations. The correct understanding is that it indicates caution and warns the engineer that the next signal may be red. This alert allows the engineer to prepare for potential stops or necessary adjustments in speed, ensuring safety as the train approaches the next signal.

In practical terms, when a locomotive engineer sees a yellow signal, it generally means that they should reduce speed and be prepared to stop at the next signal if it is red. This gives sufficient time to react to changing conditions ahead, contributing to overall operational safety on the railway network.

Recognizing that a yellow signal does not mean "clear for departure" or "full speed ahead" is essential for safety, as it indicates a need for caution rather than assurance. Therefore, understanding the meaning of a yellow signal is vital for making informed and safe decisions while operating a train.