How should a conductor respond if they encounter a track obstruction?

A conductor encountering a track obstruction should immediately stop the train and follow emergency protocols to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and the train itself. Stopping the train allows for a thorough assessment of the situation, minimizing the risk of collision with the obstruction. By adhering to established emergency protocols, the conductor can coordinate communication with control centers and necessary personnel to address the situation appropriately, ensuring that the obstruction is safely removed or managed.

This approach emphasizes the critical importance of safety and emergency preparedness in railway operations. Following emergency protocols often includes notifying the dispatcher, evaluating the obstruction, and taking the necessary steps to safeguard everyone involved.

The other choices do not address safety adequately. Continuing to the next station would risk a serious accident if the obstruction is significant enough. Sounding the horn continuously may alert others to a problem but does not address the obstruction directly. Requesting assistance is a component of response but must be done after ensuring that the immediate situation is controlled by first stopping the train. Therefore, stopping the train and following protocols is the most effective and safest response to a track obstruction.