As we begin a new year, the members of the Hickory Corners and Community Fire Company would like to remind everyone of the official duties of Fire Police and Emergency Services Personnel while on the scene of incidents. The following information is provided by the Pennsylvania State Police:
“The Pennsylvania State Police would like to remind motorists of the official duties of Fire Police and Emergency Services and their powers under their Governmental Functions. It is important that every motorist understands and obeys the laws regarding commands, detours, and road closures provided by Fire Police and Emergency Services Personnel. The Pennsylvania State Police would like to remind the public of the following:
• Motorists must adhere to road closure signs, signals, directional patterns, and verbal commands.
• Motorists must realize the emergency lights represent a nearby hazard and will need to stop or slow down to receive some form of direction or instruction.
• Motorists are not permitted to drive over or around fire hoses, emergency equipment, or any form of barricade, unless instructed to do so.
• Motorists are not permitted to interfere with or obstruct any emergency services.
• Any obstruction or interference with emergency services, failure to adhere to an official order, or disorderly conduct will result in an arrest graded anywhere from a summary offense up to a misdemeanor of the second degree.
The Pennsylvania State Police would like to remind the public that these laws will continue to be strictly enforced. Safety is a combined effort from everyone during any incident where emergency services have responded.
The official Press Release from the Pennsylvania State Police may be viewed here.
