How can firefighters determine if a CTA rail car is still energized?

Determining if a CTA rail car is still energized involves assessing the operational indicators that show whether the electrical systems are active. One of the most significant signs of this is the status of the main interior lights. When the lights are illuminated, it typically indicates that the electrical power is still active in the rail car, suggesting that the systems are energized.

In contrast, checking for damage on the exterior may not provide a conclusive indication of the energy status since a rail car can be damaged yet still maintain electrical power. Similarly, signs of smoke may indicate an electrical or fire issue but do not directly inform about the energization of the car. Listening for the motors to run could provide some insight, but such behavior may not be consistently reliable, especially if the car is not in operation or if the motors have failed. Seeing the lights on provides a clear and immediate understanding of whether the system is energized, making it the most reliable choice among the options presented.