Help save a life – be ‘Blue Light Aware’
With additional winter pressures just around the corner South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) is supporting a 'Blue Light Aware' video by the GEM Motoring Assist Road Safety Charity that offers advice to members of the public on how best to help any emergency service driver on a 'blue light' run. It is based on the advice available in the Highway Code and addresses specific situations identified as causing confusion for motorists.
The vast majority of road users want to help an emergency service driver en route to an emergency on 'blues and twos', yet many remain confused about what they should do in order to provide the best help when they find themselves in such circumstances. As a result, too many members of the public are putting themselves in danger, breaking the law or risking damage to their cars while trying to assist an emergency vehicle on a 'blue light' run.
Your local ambulance service would urge you to view the 'Blue Light Aware' video now at www.bluelightaware.org.uk.
Jon Porter, Driving Standards Manager at South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said:
'We have been involved with and fully support the creation of this public information video, together with many emergency service colleagues from other NHS Ambulance Trusts, the Police and Fire Services, other training authorities and road safety organisations.
'Our double crewed ambulances, rapid response vehicles and motor cycles make 'blue light' journeys because someone needs their urgent medical help.
'In the event of a cardiac arrest, without early intervention and defibrillation the chances of long term survival decline by as much as 10% per minute. Vital seconds in the event of any medical emergency can make a real difference to a patient's outcome. By watching 'Blue Light Aware' you will better understand the needs of the emergency services, you will be reducing the risks you face and you will be contributing to a safer road environment. What's more you might also be helping to save a life!'
Published 22 October 2012.