Crossing gates are safety devices used at railway crossings to prevent vehicles and pedestrians from entering the tracks when a train is approaching. These gates typically lower automatically when a train is detected, signaling that it is unsafe to cross. They are often equipped with lights and alarms to alert people of an oncoming train. The primary purpose of crossing gates is to reduce the risk of accidents at intersections where roads meet railway lines. By controlling access to these areas, crossing gates help ensure the safety of both train passengers and motorists.