This can be nerve wracking to new and experienced drivers alike, when you hear the sirens or see the lights, and there are a few simple things you can do to make everything work smoothly for yourself and the emergency vehicle.
Remember what the Highway Code advises:
Rule 194: Emergency vehicles. You should look and listen for ambulances, fire engines, police or other emergency vehicles flashing blue, red or green lights, headlights or sirens. When one approaches do not panic. Consider the route of the emergency vehicle and take appropriate action to let it pass. If necessary, pull to the side of the road and stop, but do not endanger other road users.
‘You should look and listen’
This is something that you are expected to do all the time, your Look Assess Decide Act routine should be happening every moment you are in charge of your vehicle. However, distractions from passengers, radios and the like may mean that you do not notice things as early as you should. Be aware of these distractions. If you like loud music, increase your observations – don’t let yourself drive on autopilot – being surprised by something, especially an emergency vehicle, means that you have let your concentration slip. Bear in mind that speeds above 45 mph may mean you cannot hear an approaching siren from behind simply due to road and engine noise.
