What should you do before maneuvering through an intersection with an ambulance?

Checking for pedestrians and other vehicles before maneuvering through an intersection is essential for ensuring safety. This step helps to assess the condition of the intersection, allowing the operator to identify any obstacles or hazards that may not be immediately visible. It is crucial to confirm that the way is clear before proceeding, as other road users may not be aware of the ambulance’s presence. Failure to check could lead to collisions, endangering both the ambulance crew and any other individuals nearby.

While activating the siren is important for signaling the ambulance’s approach, it does not eliminate the need to check for others in the intersection. Moreover, speeding up to clear the intersection quickly can compromise safety, as it may not allow enough time to react to unexpected obstacles. Cautiously merging into the opposing lane without ensuring it is safe could also lead to dangerous situations. Thus, prioritizing a visual check for pedestrians and vehicles directly aligns with safe driving practices, especially in emergency situations.