Emergency Vehicle Operations - NEMS Document Hub

Driving Basics

Every PCP or higher is allowed to drive an ambulance under promise of following all the defined points below.
You must always adhere to the Highway Traffic Act
- Maintain lane discipline
- Maintain speed limits at all times and reduce speed if weather or road conditions require

Driving Basics under the use of lights and sirens

You may only use lights & sirens when responding or transporting patients with a triage level of yellow or above
The driver is always responsible for driving with extreme caution of other road users. The driver cannot expect to have free way even if using lights & sirens.
You must come to a full stop at stop signs or red lights before continuing you must check that the intersection is clear.
Even with lights and sirens enabled!
You must yield to other emergency vehicles, coordinate if possible.
Avoid wrong-way driving unless absolutely necessary.
You may not exceed the set speed limit by more than 20 km/h.

Vehicle Check

The driver must make sure that the vehicle is in roadworthy condition.
- Check tires
- Check lights & siren
- Check fuel (refuel before going on duty if <25%)
Other crew members must perform checks on medical and safety gear in the meantime.

Scene Parking

(Vehicle Accidents) Park at a 45° angle behind the incident and leave room for Fire Department if required and not on scene yet.
(Pedestrian) Park behind the patient at no or just a slight 10-15° angle. You may park on the sidewalk to keep the road open.
The front of the ambulance should face towards a clear area for easier off transport.
Set parking brake and activate hazard lights and rear warning lights. Keep ELS always enabled at emergent scenes.

Collision / Incident Reporting

EVOC Training

Only for Ranked members
Consisting of:
- Basic driving course
- Code 3 response Scenario
- Intersection approach & hazard recognition test
- Night driving / difficult weather