An increase in near-miss accidents involving emergency vehicles at the Kitimat fire hall has prompted the addition of new road markings outside the station, aiming to improve safety for firefighters, emergency responders and the public.
“The reason for the lines is part of an important safety initiative ... often due to motorists not stopping, and in some cases, not slowing down when emergency vehicles are backing into the bays directly from the highway," Kitimat Fire Chief Trent Bossence said. "The new markings help reduce guesswork for drivers, making it easier to stop and yield when emergency vehicles are backing in.”
New stop lines have been painted at the traffic lights on either side of the station, which activate to give emergency vehicles right of way. White lines were added in front of the apparatus bays, marking the space where fire trucks and ambulances turn and back into the station, creating a clear visual cue for approaching drivers to exercise caution.
“We are hopeful that these lines will serve as a clear reminder to motorists to approach the fire hall with caution, prioritizing the safety of everyone on the road," Bossence added. "We encourage the public to be mindful of these markings and to always stop when emergency vehicles are backing up to prevent any potential accidents,” he said.
