SFD.018.REV6 - Emergency Vehicle Driver Operator

Emergency Vehicle Driver/Operator Requirements

• The minimum age requirement for an emergency vehicle driver/operator is 21 years old.
• The purpose of recognizing the importance of emergency vehicle response is to ensure prompt and safe arrival at emergency scenes.

Emergency Vehicle Response Guidelines

• A true emergency is considered a situation that requires immediate attention, such as a life-threatening situation or a potential hazard to people or property.
• Emergency vehicle driver/operators are responsible for the care, custody, and control of department vehicles and equipment.
• The scope of the emergency vehicle driver/operator procedure includes operating department vehicles in a safe and responsible manner.

Review and Monitoring

• The guideline on emergency vehicle driver/operator procedures is reviewed by the Chief Officer or designee.
• A Department of Motor Vehicles Driving Record Report (MVR) review is conducted every 3 years on Spring Fire Department members.

Violations and Suspensions

• A Class A violation is a severe violation, such as reckless driving or driving under the influence.
• Up to 2 Class B violations are allowed within a 3-year period.
• A minimum suspension period of 3 days is imposed for a Spring Fire Department member who has a Class A violation within the past 3 years.
• 3 or more moving violation convictions and/or chargeable accidents in a 3-year period will result in a suspension.
• The maximum period of suspension for a Spring Fire Department member with more than 3 moving violation convictions or 3 chargeable accidents or any combination in a 3-year period is 14 days.

Accident Procedures

• After an accident, the member operating the vehicle must stop and notify the dispatcher or supervisor immediately.
• All fleet accidents involving a department-owned vehicle are reviewed by the Fleet Accident Review Board.
• Disciplinary action can be taken if a member is at fault in a fleet accident.
• Factors reviewed during the Fleet Accident Review Board process include the accident report, witness statements, and any available video evidence.
• The purpose of not providing a timeframe for the completion of the Accident Review Board is to ensure a thorough and unbiased investigation.

Safe Driving Practices

• If a driver/operator is observed breaking any traffic laws or operating any vehicle in an aggressive or unsafe manner, they will be subject to disciplinary action.
• Examples of conditions that require slower response speeds include inclement weather, road construction, and nighttime driving.
• When approaching an uncontrolled intersection, emergency vehicle driver/operators should slow down and exercise caution.
• At a controlled intersection with a red traffic light, emergency vehicle driver/operators should slow down and come to a complete stop before proceeding.
• When approaching a railroad crossing, emergency vehicle driver/operators should slow down and exercise caution.
• During non-emergency responses, emergency vehicles should be operated in a safe and defensive manner.
• During ordinary travel conditions, emergency vehicle driver/operators should operate their vehicles in a safe and courteous manner.

Backing and Passing Procedures

• The department's first choice of backing procedure is to have a spotter assist the driver.
• It is permissible for members to pass an emergency vehicle while en route to an emergency incident only when authorized by the dispatcher or supervisor.
• When responding to the station or the scene of an emergency in their privately owned vehicles, members should drive safely and follow all traffic laws.

Fleet Accident Classification and Procedures

• A Fleet Accident is classified as any accident involving a department-owned vehicle.
• Steps to be taken when involved in a fleet accident include stopping and notifying the dispatcher or supervisor, and providing a written report.
• The Chief Officer must ensure that post-accident drug testing is conducted in accordance with department policies.