There have been several letters commenting on the use of whistles and horns by the railroad.
The Federal Railroad Administration requires the use of horns or whistles in addition to the bell at all road crossings.
The whistle and horn rule from the FRA is a response to the 1994 law enacted by Congress requiring the use of horns or whistles at all public grade crossings. The rule specifies the duration of the warning whistle and how loud the whistle must be when sounded.
Scott Gibbs
Durango