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Vehicle Operation Policy 2011

Vehicle Operation Policy 2011. Types of Responses. Non – emergency Operations - anytime an EMS response vehicle is out of the station on an assignment other than an emergency run shall be considered to be a non-emergency operation.

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Vehicle Operation Policy 2011

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  1. Vehicle Operation Policy 2011

  2. Types of Responses • Non – emergency Operations - anytime an EMS response vehicle is out of the station on an assignment other than an emergency run shall be considered to be a non-emergency operation. • Emergency Operations- Unless contracted by the County EMS Service Carolina Medcare does not respond Emergently to scenes.

  3. Secure Vehicles • When a vehicle is to be left unattended, the vehicle needs to be turned “off’ and the keys taken with the crew. Furthermore, doors and compartments should remain locked as much as is practical. • This rule is not only a loss-prevention measure for the company, but a directive from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. • Ambulances and other emergency vehicles are attractive tools of trade for criminals and terrorists.

  4. Defensive Operation • Maintaining safe following distances, not traveling in the blind spot(s) of other vehicles (Cushion of safety) • Operating vehicles in areas that are safe for the weight of the vehicle (such as bridges with weight restrictions) • Parking in a manner that does not hazard the crew entering or exiting the vehicle • Reducing speed during hazardous driving conditions (rain, snow, heavy traffic, etc.) • Reducing driver distractions such as the unit-mounted music system, cell phones, and other activities (such as eating) as much as possible while the vehicle is in motion

  5. Seatbelts • Seatbelts are to be worn at all times when the vehicle is in motion when in emergent OR non-emergent mode. • The lone exception to this rule is that a seatbelt may be removed to provide necessary patient care that cannot be accomplished while wearing a seat belt.

  6. General Necessities • Ensure that all doors and compartments are secured when the vehicle is in motion. • Turn on headlights at all times that the vehicle is on motion. • Do not smoke in the vehicles. • Pay attention to not park in areas where the vehicle will be prone to being struck by other vehicles.

  7. General Necessities • Do NOT use cell phones while driving unless there is an emergent need to do so. • Wheelchair van lifts should be retracted into the unit when not being used to load or unload patients.

  8. Emergent Driving Issues • Emergency response vehicles shall not exceed posted speed limits by more than fifteen (15) miles per hour if the posted speed limit is 40 mph or more • Units may not exceed the posted speed limit by more than ten (10) miles per hour if the posted speed limit is 39 mph or less.

  9. Emergent Driving Issues • When an EMS response vehicle approaches an intersection, with or without a control device, the vehicle must be operated in such a manner as to permit the driver to make a safe controlled stop if necessary. • When an EMS response vehicle approaches a red light, stop sign, stopped school bus or a non-controlled railroad crossing, the vehicle must come to a complete stop. • The driver of an EMS response vehicle must account for all lanes of traffic prior to proceeding through an intersection and should treat each lane of traffic as a separate intersection.

  10. Emergent Driving Issues • When an EMS response vehicle uses the median (turning lane) or an oncoming traffic lane to approach intersections, they must come to a complete stop before proceeding through the intersection with caution. • When traffic conditions require an EMS response vehicle to travel in the oncoming traffic lanes, the maximum speed is twenty (20) miles per hour.

  11. Emergent Driving Issues • Upon dispatch, emergency operations are only authorized when mutual aid is requested from the county EMS service provider. • Emergency vehicle operations are authorized at a scene when it is necessary to protect the safety of EMS personnel, patients or the public.

  12. Emergent Driving Issues • EMS response vehicles do not have an absolute right of way, it is qualified and cannot be taken forcefully. • During an emergency operation the vehicle's headlights and all emergency lights shall be illuminated and the siren used while the vehicle is in motion AND the vehicle will be using emergency operation privileges. • Safety Quiz click here

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