Roadway Safety & FD Operations
Incident #: Date of Incident: 12/27/2012 Issuing Officer: AC Schaeffer
Narrative:
Each year in the United States, approximately 100 firefighters pay the ultimate price in their service to the community; and thousands more are injured. While some of these deaths and debilitating injuries are not preventable, with your help there are many that can be avoided!
Among the greatest dangers faced by Firefighters, State Troopers and other public employees is the inattention and carelessness of motorists near emergencies and work zones. The SFD wants you to be aware of the danger faced by your first responders, and to adopt two simple driving habits:
- In Washington the law (RCW 46.61.212) requires motorists - if safe to do so - to slow and move to an adjacent lane for emergency personnel, transportation maintenance workers and tow operators working on or near the highway (in lanes or on the road shoulder). (Link)
- Many drivers also disregard that prohibits motorists from driving over any hose being used by the Fire Department (RCW 46.56.110).
With some fire hoses flowing hundreds of gallons of water per minute, the abrupt interruption of a water supply at the scene of a fire - even for a second, is far more than an inconvenience. A sudden lack of water or surge in water pressure can not only destroy the pump in a fire engine, it can endanger firefighters working inside a burning building and those they are trying to save.
Public safety agencies nationwide are working together to improve the safety of responders and motorists. We ask you to do your part in remaining attentive behind the wheel and following laws that are designed for our collective safety. Operating your vehicle with regard for those working on and near the highway is a demonstrable way to show you care.
Highway safety is a complex issue. Our friends at Washington State Patrol have a comprehensive website that addresses many frequently asked questions.
Cause:
N/A
Damage:
N/A
End Of Release For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002
No comments:
Post a Comment