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Merge to the Right for Lights and Sirens Whether it’s an ambulance, fire or police crew, our goal is to arrive at the emergency as quickly and safely as possible to begin caring for those in need of help. A few seconds or minutes can mean the difference between life and death. As first responders, we desperately need the public’s help. When you see lights and hear sirens, Merge to the Right and let the emergency vehicle pass. Southwest Ambulance, like most agencies has strict protocols when lights and sirens are permitted. For example, we only use lights and sirens on the way to an emergency, or when a critical patient needs to get to the hospital as quickly as possible. Southwest Ambulance will not use lights and sirens when a patient’s condition is stable and time is not of the essence. So if you see lights and hear sirens, the emergency is real. Remember, the R-I-G-H-T thing to do:
React
Respond quickly but calmly. Scan all directions for more than one emergency vehicle. Plan your next move.
Initiate
Begin your move to the right. Use your turn signal. Try not to slam on your brakes or pull over suddenly and never run a red light to move to the right.
Gauge
Remember to safely gauge the distance between your car and the cars around you, and pull over as far right as possible. Never stop at a place that doesn't have enough room for you to pull over safely.
Halt
Stay completely stopped to the right of the road until the emergency vehicle has safely passed. Remember there may be more than one vehicle responding, so scan around before you merge back into traffic.
Tolerate
Emergency personnel only use their lights and sirens when they are needed to offer critical care and assistance. So please, pull over. It only takes a few minutes of your time. Someday you may be the one calling for help -- for you, a loved one, friend, or neighbor.
Other Helpful Reminders
Crosswalks and Roadsides
Be alert for pedestrians who may be in the crosswalk, or the edge of the road. They may be looking for the emergency vehicles too.
Highways
Gradually brake to avoid losing control in loose gravel on the shoulder.
Pedestrians
Never cross in front of an emergency vehicle that may be stopped at a busy intersection waiting for another vehicle to pass.
Bicyclists
Pull as far to the right as possible to allow emergency vehicles to pass.
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