Here it is, the annual reminder article about how to respond when an emergency vehicle pulls up
behind you. It appears that this message can never be repeated too often. And, drivers this past
weekend seem to need a refresher course! So here it is.
The top ten list EMS providers cite as their favorite and familiar pet peeves about drivers and
emergency vehicles:
an ambulance is behind them.
allowing for a great opening into traffic and then pulling out in front of the approaching
emergency vehicle, thus securing their place in traffic and perhaps in history. No, you have
not been made King or Queen!
vehicle through traffic to beat the system. We are getting pretty good at calling
these folks in and giving accurate descriptions.
officially.
stop, move over and wait. They feel exempt because they are going in the other direction.
them to clear the way just for them.
intersection!
These days ambulances using lights and sirens have decreased dramatically. So, this would mean
that when you do see an ambulance with lights and sirens it is very likely that this is a life or
death situation. Don’t have room to pull over? Simply pull as far to the side as possible and
STOP, preferably not on a blind turn or at the crest of a hill. You may be able to see, but we
cannot. When you keep driving alongside the ambulance, the chances of a collision are
multiplied. Obviously, this message cannot be repeated often enough.
As the weather changes and the challenges of snow and ice are added to driving, the need for
drivers to be educated in what to do increases. An ambulance, like any larger vehicle, cannot
stop on a dime and anytime there are sudden stops, there is the danger of not only flipping the
vehicle but causing injuries and in some cases, death to the provider and patient. Keep all these
things in mind and certainly don’t be afraid to share your new-found knowledge with others!
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We are currently hiring full-time, part-time, and per-diem paramedics. For additional information, please call (570) 242-2269 or email deborahkkulick@gmail.com