If you are approaching an intersection and an emergency vehicle is coming forth, make sure the intersection is clear, and STOP.
If there is an emergency vehicle coming up from behind you, merge to the right and stop. This does not mean race the ambulance, this does not mean get in front of the person in front of you this means merge to the right and STOP.
If you are at a stop light and an emergency vehicle is approaching, DO NOT run the red light. DO NOT merge to the left. Stay put, the EMTS are trained and will always drive with due regard.
If you are turning and you hear sirens make sure they are not the ones approaching you it is very difficult to stop an ambulance on command, a lot of heavy equipment and a heavy truck.
If you see a wreck please don’t rubber neck and cause another accident pay attention, and attempt to move over. EMTS do not get paid enough to be placing their lives on the line just because you want to see an accident.
Please, pay attention not only for the safety of the EMTS but also for your own safety. Imagine if this was your emergency, wouldn’t you want the help there in a timely manner and wouldn’t you want people to drive with due regard.
May is also a special month for Emergency Medical Services. In May EMS week is celebrated. National EMS Week 2017 will be May 21 - 27. Wednesday, May 24 is Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) Day. Take time to thank an EMT. People never realize how much of our personal lives we miss out on to ensure safety of anyone. We miss holidays, we work long odd hours and a lot of our mental health is put to the test with the things we see. EMS is not a regular job it takes a lot of mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspect of it, however it is a job that we choose, it is a job that I wouldn’t trade in for the world.