Fire truckSouth Africa
Traffic rules
South Africa
50. Fire truck
A fire truck is an emergency vehicle used by the fire and rescue services to transport firefighters, firefighting equipment, rescue equipment or water to fires, collisions and other emergencies. Different types of fire trucks may be designed for firefighting, rescue operations, aerial access or other specialised tasks.
During an emergency response, a fire truck may use warning lights and a siren and may receive priority or exemptions from certain traffic rules. Other road users must follow the local rules for emergency vehicles, make sufficient space and avoid obstructing their passage.
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What is a fire truck?
A fire truck is an emergency vehicle used by firefighters to respond to fires, collisions, rescues and other emergencies. It may carry firefighters, water, ladders and specialised rescue equipment.
When does a fire truck have priority?
This depends on the local traffic laws and emergency signals being used. Fire trucks responding to urgent incidents commonly use flashing warning lights and a siren to indicate that other road users must make way.
What should you do when a fire truck approaches?
Make sufficient space and allow it to pass. Slow down or stop where necessary, but avoid sudden manoeuvres that could endanger other road users or block the emergency vehicle.
Should you enter an intersection to make way for a fire truck?
Do not create another dangerous situation. Make room in a safe and controlled manner and follow any directions given by police, firefighters or other authorised personnel.
Can a fire truck pass a red traffic light?
Emergency vehicles may be permitted to pass a red light during an urgent response under special legal conditions. The precise rules and precautions required vary between countries.
Can a fire truck exceed the speed limit?
Many countries allow emergency vehicles to depart from certain speed restrictions while carrying out an urgent mission. Emergency drivers must nevertheless take appropriate precautions and comply with the applicable emergency-driving rules.
Can a fire truck use lanes that ordinary traffic cannot use?
Emergency vehicles may sometimes use emergency lanes, restricted lanes or other parts of the road during urgent missions when local law permits it.
Can you follow a fire truck through traffic?
You should not follow closely or use the path created for the fire truck to bypass traffic. Maintain a safe distance and continue to obey the normal traffic rules.
Do fire trucks always use their sirens?
No. Warning lights and sirens are generally used according to the urgency of the mission and local law. A fire-service vehicle travelling on a non-urgent assignment may operate without emergency signals.
What should you do near a stationary fire truck?
Reduce speed and remain alert. Firefighters, hoses, equipment or other emergency personnel may be on or near the roadway, and temporary traffic restrictions may be in place.
