46 S.O.G. 

SECTION: Apparatus Operation

SUBJECT: Warning Devices

REVISED: 05/2002

PURPOSE:

            To establish the procedures and criteria for use of warning devices on fire vehicles.

POLICY:

            The fire department shall utilize warning devices on emergency vehicles in accordance with those criteria established in the New York State Vehicle Code.

AUTHORITY:

            New York State authorizes the use of warning lights and sirens on fire department vehicles during responses to emergency situations.  Emergency situations are defined as those situations where life and/or property are directly endangered.

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS: (priority 1 responses)

A.                 Emergency vehicles shall be operated on an emergency basis only when all warning devices are in continuous operation.

B.                 Warning lights on fire department apparatus shall be kept in operation while responding to alarms or when necessary while working at emergency scenes.

C.                 The siren shall be operated through its full range of sounds during emergency responses.

D.                 Apparatus headlights shall be kept in operation during all emergency responses day or night and, when necessary while working at emergencies.

E.                  Air horn may be used in connection with the siren. (The air horn is not to be used in a manner, which will exclude the siren).

F.                  All fire department vehicles will stop at all marked intersections either by a stop sign or traffic light.

NON-EMERGENCY OPERATION: (priority 2 responses)

A.                 Vehicles responding to non-emergency type incidents, such as stand-by calls, public assist calls or calls defined as priority 2 by department officers, or first arriving units.

B.                 Warning lights and/or siren will not be used when returning to the station from fire incidents.

C.                 When the apparatus is parked on a public street, the four-way amber flashers may be utilized to warn passing motorists of its presence.

RESPONSIBILITY:

            It’s the responsibility of all apparatus drivers to adhere to the guidelines set forth.