What should civilians do when they encounter emergency vehicles responding with warning lights and sirens?

When encountering emergency vehicles that are responding with warning lights and sirens, the appropriate action for civilians is to pull to the right and stop, clearing intersections. This response is crucial for several reasons.

First, moving to the right allows emergency responders to pass safely and quickly, which is essential during critical situations such as medical emergencies, fires, or law enforcement calls. By stopping and yielding, civilians help to create a clear path and reduce potential delays for these vehicles.

Additionally, clearing intersections is vital to prevent accidents. When civilians remain in an intersection or attempt to speed up in response to approaching emergency vehicles, it can lead to dangerous situations, increasing the risk of collisions.

This practice aligns with traffic laws and regulations that govern the right of way for emergency vehicles, ensuring not just the safety of the responders but also other road users. Basic public awareness campaigns often emphasize this behavior to foster safer road environments during emergencies.