Deena, a seasoned paramedic with the London Ambulance Service, has issued an important warning to drivers about how to respond when they hear an ambulance siren behind them. According to her, the biggest mistake drivers can make is trying to do just one thing, such as pulling over prematurely or hesitating, which can inadvertently cause delays or accidents.
She advises that when you hear or see an ambulance approaching, it’s essential to remain calm and take multiple coordinated actions: check your mirrors, signal clearly, and move safely to the side of the road without making sudden or isolated movements. This thoughtful approach ensures the ambulance can pass quickly and safely, ultimately saving precious time in emergencies.
Deena emphasizes that quick, clear, and predictable reactions from drivers are vital to helping paramedics reach those in need. By doing more than just a single, isolated action and considering the traffic flow around them, drivers can contribute to efficient emergency responses and potentially save lives.