Tips for assisting emergency vehicles

Last month, a collective warning was issued by the commissioners of police, firefighters and State Emergency Service to drivers who ignore blaring sirens and flashing lights of emergency vehicles.

It followed reports from firefighters, paramedics, police and emergency service volunteers, who have all raised concerns about drivers not moving out of their way.

According to Fire and Rescue NSW, the Centre for Road Safety General Manager, Marg Pendergast, said the road rules around emergency vehicles have to be followed to ensure all road users are safe.

“These road rules are easy to understand – do not block or move into the path of an emergency vehicle when they are using their lights or sirens,” Ms Pendergast said.

“Move to the left as quickly and safely as possible and remember never to stop near an incident in a position that obstructs traffic.

“Drivers must also give way, even if the emergency services vehicle would ordinarily be required to give way,” Ms Pendergast said.

TIPS FOR ASSISTING EMERGENCY VEHICLES:
- Do not panic
- Slow down (but do not brake rapidly)
- Use your indicators
- Be aware of other motorists; drivers should not play music at such a volume they cannot hear outside sounds.
- Do not move suddenly or move into the path of the emergency vehicle
- Move as far to the left of the road as you can and come to a stop.
- If you cannot move out of the path safely, keep moving forward until it’s safe to move over.
- Remember, you are required to abide by road rules at all times.

“An obstructed journey can be the difference between life and death,” said NSW Police Minister Michael Gallacher.

Does it surprise you to hear that some motorists ignore emergency vehicles? How do you react to sirens?

New air horns are being installed on some existing and new fire engines to further alert drivers of the need to move out of the way. You can hear the new signal here.sa