Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service reminds motorists to use caution around emergency vehicles

Released: December 11, 2014 at 10:19 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB - In response to a motor vehicle accident involving a Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) ambulance that occurred on Tuesday, December 9, the WFPS would like to remind motorists to use caution around emergency vehicles.

“The WFPS is committed to providing a safe working environment for our firefighters and paramedics, and we need the public’s cooperation to achieve our safety goals,” said Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Chief John Lane. “Educating motorists on what to do when an emergency vehicle is encountered is the first step in protecting our responders while they travel on roadways en route to emergency calls.”

Chief Lane added: “Although two of our paramedics suffered minor injuries in Tuesday’s accident, there was potential for a much more serious incident to have occurred. It is important to recognize the commitment that WFPS responders have to serving the public and that a number of dangerous situations can arise during the course of their work day.”

What to do when you encounter an emergency vehicle:

  • If an ambulance or fire truck is approaching from behind with its red lights flashing and siren sounding, you must yield the right-of-way to the emergency vehicle. Pull over to the right (all the way to the curb if practical) and stop parallel to the curb. Keep your foot on the brake pedal so the emergency driver can see your brake lights.
  • If you are turning left, and there are cars to your right which prevent you from pulling over, slowly pull your vehicle parallel to the line of traffic, and come to a complete stop. The emergency vehicle driver may then decide the safest route is to cautiously pass you on the right, or to pass you on the left. Keep your foot on the brake pedal so the emergency driver can see your brake lights.
  • If you are driving on a highway and see an ambulance or fire truck stopped, reduce your speed and slowly proceed past the stopped vehicle when safe to do so. You should allow for one lane of clearance and be cautious of other motorists approaching from the opposite direction or from behind.

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