If a signal is unlit, what is the first action a train operator should take?

When a signal is unlit, it typically indicates a potential issue with the signaling system, and it is crucial for the safety of both the train and its passengers to address this situation promptly. The first action a train operator should take is to stop and report immediately to the Control Center Desk. This step is essential because it ensures that the oversight team is aware of the situation, allowing them to assess the signaling system's status and provide guidance for the safe continuation of operations.

Stopping the train not only prevents any risk of proceeding into an uncertain situation but also allows the operator to communicate with the Control Center, ensuring that all necessary protocols are followed in dealing with potentially hazardous circumstances related to the unlit signal. This action helps maintain safety standards and prevent accidents that could arise from assuming the meaning of an unlit signal without verification.