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Traffic Units

Our Apparatus

MCVFPA

Driver Safety

Driver safety during emergency responses is paramount to protect both the responders and the public. When red light vehicles, being operated by fire police, are called to an emergency, using sirens grants them the ability to request the right of way. However, this does not absolve them of the responsibility to ensure safe passage. They must still yield to traffic, carefully assessing the intersection to confirm it is clear before proceeding through a red light. Conversely, blue light vehicles, which are typically courtesy vehicles, operate under stricter rules. They are not authorized to disregard traffic signals, drive against traffic, or bypass stop signs. These vehicles depend on the cooperation of other drivers and must adhere to all traffic laws, ensuring a safe and respectful transit. Both red and blue light vehicles play vital roles, but their operational constraints and responsibilities differ significantly in maintaining road safety. Traffic Units are permitted to operate a vehicle with both red and blue lights and sirens, but they are still required to ensure all intersections are safe before proceeding through the intersection. We also recommend being mindful of other emergency vehicles and responders when responding to calls. In this case, while you may have the green light to proceed through an intersection, be careful another responding vehicle isn’t approaching. Long story short, proceed slowly, always use caution, and remember our goal is always to come home from each call in one piece! Stay alive - drive to survive!

Montgomery County

Our Traffic Units