When you’re driving on UK roads, it’s important to be prepared for emergency vehicles approaching. Whether it’s an ambulance rushing to a medical emergency or a fire engine heading to a blaze, these vehicles need to get to their destination as quickly and safely as possible. In this article, we’ll go over what to do when an emergency vehicle is approaching.
Stay Calm and Alert
The first thing to do when you see or hear an emergency vehicle approaching is to stay calm and alert. Don’t panic or make sudden movements that could endanger yourself or others. Instead, take a deep breath and focus on the road ahead.
Identify the Direction of the Emergency Vehicle
Once you’ve heard or seen the emergency vehicle, try to identify the direction it’s coming from. Check your mirrors and look around to get a sense of where the vehicle is and how close it is to you.
Slow Down and Move Over
If you’re driving, the first thing you should do when you hear or see an emergency vehicle is to slow down and move over to the left as much as possible. This will create a clear path for the emergency vehicle to pass. If you’re in a multi-lane road, move into the left-hand lane, or the lane closest to the left-hand side of the road.
If you’re driving on a single-lane road, slow down and pull over as far to the left as possible without endangering yourself or others. Make sure you come to a complete stop and turn off your engine if it’s safe to do so.
Stay Put Until the Emergency Vehicle Passes
Once you’ve pulled over, stay put until the emergency vehicle has passed. Do not try to follow the vehicle, as this could put you and others at risk. Instead, wait until you’re sure that the vehicle has passed before you resume driving.
Be Prepared for Sudden Movements
When emergency vehicles are approaching, other drivers may also be pulling over or changing lanes, so be prepared for sudden movements from other vehicles. Keep a safe distance from other cars and be prepared to stop suddenly if necessary.
Conclusion
When an emergency vehicle is approaching, it’s important to stay calm and alert, slow down and move over, and stay put until the vehicle has passed. By doing so, you can help emergency vehicles get to their destination as quickly and safely as possible, and you can ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.