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Letter: Ambulances should have sirens going at all times during a call

Gives drivers more time to figure out how to pull over
ambulance-paramedic
Letter writer Al Thompson is concerned about paramedics using sirens on ambulances sporadically. File photo.

It happened again yesterday. 

I am driving up Barrydowne in traffic, and as I check my rear view mirror, notice a fast-approaching ambulance two cars back in the shared, middle lane with just the lights on.

With a controlled degree of panic, I assess my position in moving traffic to see if I can squeeze right, but the lane is completely blocked as the Gemmell intersection was close ahead. I had no choice but to slow down. Suddenly, the sirens went on, startling the driver behind me. The siren startled me even though I knew it was coming. The ambulance driver had to conduct a precise "S-maneuver" through Gemmell intersection against a red light. 

I have noticed over the years that this is not uncommon. I am wondering why ambulances do not operate sirens all the time during daytime hours on busy streets? I understand leaving them off at night would be prudent. I suspect ambulance drivers are trained to switch them on when they approach intersections with traffic lights. 

My point is: often it is way too late for the congested intersections to clear with sporadic use of sirens. I believe everyone is put at risk with this approach. 

An advanced auditory alert would warn drivers and pedestrians much sooner resulting in a better chance to slow down and pull to the right so that ambulance drivers can safely do their vital jobs. 

Nothing troubles me more than drivers not pulling over for emergency vehicles. I used to think it was careless drivers breaking the law. Now, I've concluded that some drivers are probably unaware. Please sound the sirens for safety's sake.

Al Thompson
Greater Sudbury