REPORT EM ER GENCY OR P RO BL EM 1–800 – XXX –XXXX  X-ING 9 99 999 Z 81 Chapter 5 — Signals and Signs An example of the railroad Emergency Notification Sign is  depicted in the red circle on the illustration  below. Guide/informational signs give directions, routes, distances and  indicate services. • Even-numbered highways generally run east and west. • Route markers for U.S. highways are in the shape of a shield. • North Carolina route markers are diamond shaped. • N.C. secondary road signs are rectangular in shape. • Interstate highways are marked by a red, white  and blue shield. • Signs indicating a nearby hospital, Highway  Patrol station or telephone are blue and white. • Guide signs, also rectangular in shape, may be  green, brown or blue. They provide directions  and distances. If you are lost, a mileage and  directional sign can help you. Do not endanger other drivers by stopping in the  middle of the road to read a sign. When safe to do so,  move to the shoulder of the road and wait until you  have figured out where you are and which route you  should take. Railroad Emergency Notification System sign 3. Guide/Informational Signs The five-sided (or pentagon) sign warns  of a school zone or a school crossing. You  should be especially watchful for children  in these areas. In many school zones, the  speed limit is reduced during certain school  hours. Interstate, U.S. and N.C. highways are numbered and marked. • Odd-numbered highways generally run north and south.