How must trains approach non-interlocked facing point switches under DCS rules?

The requirement for trains to ascertain that a non-interlocked facing point switch is properly lined before passing is critical for ensuring safety and preventing accidents. Under DCS (Direct Control System) rules, facing point switches can potentially lead a train onto a track that is not aligned for its route. Therefore, verifying the alignment of the switch is essential to confirm that the train will remain on the correct path.

This approach emphasizes the importance of safety checks in real-time operational scenarios, ensuring that the crew takes necessary precautions before proceeding. It helps to prevent derailments, collisions, or unintended route deviations, which could result from an improperly lined switch. Such verification is part of a comprehensive safety protocol that prioritizes the integrity of train operations, especially when dealing with scenarios that may not be controlled via interlocking mechanisms.

In contrast, other options suggest actions that either overlook the need for proper inspection or imply unnecessary clearance procedures that don't align with the operational protocols established for such situations. Failing to confirm switch alignment could lead to severe safety hazards, thereby reinforcing the necessity for the practice established in the correct choice.