The International Association of Fire Chiefs urges fire departments to review their vehicle operations policies and safety procedures in response to the increasing number of critical vehicle crashes involving fire and EMS response vehicles in the past several weeks.

"Holiday traffic and winter storms can exacerbate the vehicle hazards associated with responding quickly to a call," said Chief Steven P. Westermann, IAFC president. "We are calling on our members to review their safety procedures to address the recent spate of accidents before the trend progresses."

All departments should:

• Review vehicle operations policies and any applicable state laws, particularly regarding stopping at controlled intersections, and during weather events such as snow or ice, floods and high winds. If policies do not exist, the IAFC recommends drafting them (samples are available at the links listed below).
• Hold training and structured discussions with all personnel on those policies to provide clarification and direction as to what is expected and required when responding to emergency calls.
• Check the qualifications and training of all vehicle operators.
• Ensure that jurisdiction insurance providers are aware of our vehicle operations policies.

Further information and resources on emergency vehicle safety can be found at: IAFC Vehicle Safety Guide and Resources; IAFC Safety Health and Survival Section; IAFF Emergency Vehicle Safety Program; and Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association Emergency Responder Safety Institute