We have all experienced the adrenaline rush that occurs when a serious call comes in. As public servants, we are trusted to keep the public safe, and as a part of that responsibility, we must also keep ourselves safe.

Vehicle accidents are a leading cause of firefighter injuries and fatalities as such, each of us should continually review our department's policies for safe driving. It is the responsibility of the driver of each piece of fire/EMS apparatus to drive safely at all times. Drivers of emergency vehicles are often still responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle. Here are a few things to keep in mind about safe driving. Check and see if your policies or training programs reflect all these "best practices."

• When responding to an emergency (Code 3), warning lights must be on and sirens should be sounded to warn other drivers and pedestrians.
• The use of sirens and warning lights does not automatically give the right of way to the emergency vehicle. These devices simply request the right of way from the other drivers.
• Always drive defensively, and be prepared for the unexpected.
• In some states, fire department vehicles are NOT authorized to exceed posted speed limits when responding to an emergency (Code 3). Make sure you know your local law.
• If exceeding the posted speed limit is allowed, this should only be done with light traffic, good roads, good visibility and dry pavement.
• Under less favorable conditions, a safe speed LESS than the posted speed limit is the absolute maximum permissible.
• When emergency vehicles must travel in center or oncoming traffic lanes, the maximum permissible speed should be reduced.
• Intersections present the greatest potential danger to emergency vehicles. Use caution even when you have the right of way.
• All personnel are required to use seat belts at all times.
• The company officer and driver of the vehicle will confirm that all personnel and riders are on board and properly attired with seat belts on before the vehicle is permitted to move.

Credit: Some of this information was obtained from the Loveland Symmes Fire Department Employee Handbook.