In case of emergency keep calm

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23 June 2011 

Sirens and flashing lights cause many motorists to panic, mainly because drivers are not routinely taught how to respond to them. The trick is to behave calmly, legally, safely and predictably and move out of the way as soon as it is safe to do so.

This week driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering advice on how to respond to an emergency vehicle.

  1. Keep calm – if you hear a siren or see blue lights, turn off your music so you can concentrate, and take a few seconds to plan your next move. Panicking and stopping in the wrong place could  just snarl up the traffic and delay the emergency vehicle.
  2. Stop – look for somewhere to pull over, and stop if it’s safe, even if the emergency vehicle is on the other side of the road. Consider using your indicators, but only if it won’t confuse other road users.
  3. Stay safe – avoid pulling onto kerbs, pavements and verges. Verges hide a multitude of hazards, and moving onto the pavement puts pedestrians at risk.
  4. Stay legal – at traffic lights or junctions, emergency drivers will try to find their way around you. If you go through a red light or into a bus lane, unless directed by a police officer to do so, you are breaking the law and could be fined, irrespective of your good intentions.
  5. Finally – be aware that there may be more than one emergency vehicle coming. Listen for different sirens, look all around before moving off, and bear in mind you may need to move over again.

To watch a video on how to deal when approached by an emergency vehicle, please visit  http://www.bluelightaware.org.uk.

ENDS

 

Notes to editors:

 

  1. IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling.  The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses.  Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.

 

Note to the editor:

1.    For information about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

 

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