US DRIVERS would all like to think we know what we are doing when an emergency vehicle approaches but do we?

On the back of one of the busiest periods for emergency services in history and normal levels of traffic resuming in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Evesham Fire Station has issued advice on how to react when your see blue flashing lights and hear sirens.

Look to stop

If you hear a siren or see blue lights, stay calm. Look for somewhere safe to move left and stop.

Many drivers just slow down to 10mph but that an make the emergency responder's driving difficult.

Keep going on the approach to a bend or on the brow of a hill then pull over when there’s a better view ahead.

Stay out of bus lanes, keep off kerbs and pavements and don’t stop near traffic islands.

The emergency vehicle is staying behind me - why?

In a solid white line system, an emergency vehicle will probably switch off its siren as it follows you.

This is because the road layout doesn’t allow for a safe overtaking opportunity. So keep going – at the speed limit if it’s safe – until you’re clear of the solid white lines.

Your clue to pull left and let it pass is when its siren goes back on.

Don't move at traffic lights

At traffic lights emergency vehicles will find a way around you. If you’re first in the queue at a red light, stay where you are, and leave the emergency vehicle to find its way around you.

Do not go past the stop line unless directed by a uniformed police officer.

And finally...

There may be more than one emergency vehicle so check before moving off.