Yield! It Could be Your Emergency...

6/2/2009 8:46:01 AM

Contact: Elizabeth Watts

Clearwater, Fla. – What do you do when hear sirens and see the lights flashing in your vehicle’s rear-view mirror? Unfortunately, many drivers do not react properly. Incorrect reactions can result in crashes, injuries and even death – both for emergency personnel and citizens.

In 2008, there were 16 crashes involving Clearwater emergency vehicles while operating with lights and sirens. Already this year, there have been six crashes. Luckily, none have resulted in serious injuries, but the risk greatly increases when people do not yield to emergency vehicles.

The Clearwater Police Department and Clearwater Fire & Rescue want to remind and educate the public about proper actions drivers should take when an emergency vehicle is approaching.

DO’S

·Slow down and come to a stop at the closest edge of the road (right or left)

·Make sure your vehicle is clear of any intersections

·Remain in a stopped position until the emergency vehicle has passed or otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer

DON’TS:

·Don’t panic

·Don’t pull into the intersection on a red light

·Don’t stop in the middle of the intersection or in the middle of the road

Drivers should also maintain a reasonable distance behind an emergency vehicle of at least 500 feet. Drivers who fail to yield to an emergency vehicle are subject to a traffic citation that carries a $151 fine.