Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations has appealed to drivers.
The ministry provided the information to “Operative Information Center-OMM”.
It said traffic congestion has been observed on urban roads following the end of the summer vacation season and the start of the new academic year. This is creating difficulties for specialized vehicles rushing to emergency sites, including fire engines and rescue vehicles, and preventing them from arriving at the scene on time. In particular, some drivers fail to yield to fire and rescue vehicles responding to emergencies. As a result, this delays the prompt response to fires, accidents and other incidents and efforts to minimize potential damage.
In light of this, the Ministry of Emergency Situations called on drivers to immediately give way on roads to emergency vehicles, including fire engines and rescue vehicles.
The ministry reminded drivers that those who fail to yield to fire and rescue vehicles on roads may face legal liability under legislation. It also said they bear a moral responsibility because their actions can seriously hinder the timely arrival of emergency crews, the prevention of incidents and, most importantly, the rescue of people whose lives are at risk.
Traffic regulations generally require drivers to give priority to vehicles using emergency signals. Keeping lanes clear and moving safely aside can help emergency services reach people in danger more quickly.
