Blue Lights Behind You? Don't Panic – Here's What To Do!

Dear Resident,

One moment you're driving along, perhaps thinking about what's for tea, and the next moment you spot flashing blue lights in your mirror.

When a police car, ambulance or fire engine is responding to an emergency, every second counts. But don't worry – we're not expecting you to perform an emergency vehicle evacuation manoeuvre worthy of an action film!

Here's some simple advice on what to do when blue lights appear behind you.

✅ What You SHOULD Do

Stay calm

The first rule is simple: don't panic.

Emergency drivers are highly trained and deal with traffic every day. A calm, predictable driver is far more helpful than someone making sudden decisions.

Check your mirrors

Take a quick look at what's happening around you.

Are there vehicles beside you? Cyclists? Pedestrians? Understanding what's around you will help you decide the safest place to move.

Move aside when it's safe

If it's safe to do so, position your vehicle to create space for the emergency vehicle to pass.

You don't need to vanish into thin air – just make as much room as safely possible.

Plan ahead

In slow-moving traffic, drivers working together can often create a path through the middle or along one side of the road.

A little teamwork can make a big difference.

Keep following the Highway Code

Emergency vehicles may be responding to an urgent incident, but normal road rules still apply to everyone else unless directed by a police officer.

❌ What You SHOULD NOT Do

Don't slam on the brakes

The driver behind you may not have spotted the blue lights yet.

Sudden braking can create more problems than it solves.

Don't speed up

Contrary to popular belief, this isn't a race.

The emergency vehicle would quite like to get past you, not chase you.

Don't go through a red traffic light

This is one of the most common mistakes.

Even with blue lights behind you, you must not drive through a red light unless directed to do so by a police officer.

The emergency driver will find the safest way through.

Don't mount pavements or put pedestrians at risk

People walking along the pavement generally aren't expecting a car to appear beside them.

Keep everyone safe by only moving where it is legal and safe to do so.

Don't follow the emergency vehicle through traffic

It might be tempting to take advantage of the gap they've created, but resist the urge.

Think of it like being invited to a wedding—you can't assume you're included just because you're following the main guests!

Remember

Emergency service drivers don't expect perfection. They simply need road users to remain calm, stay aware and make safe, predictable decisions.

So, if you see flashing blue lights:

Stay calm. Check your mirrors. Move safely. Don't panic.

By doing so, you'll be helping police officers, firefighters and ambulance crews get to people who need them as quickly and safely as possible.

Thank you for helping to keep our roads safe.

Kind regards,

PCSO 5881
North Yorkshire Police