How should an emergency vehicle operator approach intersections?

An emergency vehicle operator should approach intersections by checking for traffic and proceeding with caution to ensure safety for themselves, their passengers, and other road users. This practice emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and helps prevent accidents by allowing the operator to observe all directions before entering the intersection.

This cautious approach entails assessing the traffic signals, scanning for vehicles that may not yield, and being alert for pedestrians and cyclists who might be crossing. By doing so, emergency vehicle operators can navigate intersections safely, which is particularly crucial when responding to incidents under the pressures of urgency and time.

While increasing speed to clear an intersection quickly might seem expedient, it significantly increases the risk of collisions. Merely looking left does not provide a comprehensive view of potential hazards, as traffic could be approaching from other directions. Lastly, keeping emergency lights on at all times is not necessarily practical or safe; they should be used judiciously to alert other vehicles and pedestrians only when appropriate.