KCFD Vehicle Operations Directive 2023-1

Vocabulary and operational rules derived from the KCFD Directive 2023-1 regarding safety protocols and speed limits for emergency vehicle operators.

GOG 10-29

Guidelines that, along with KCFD Rules and Regulations, are being updated through LMSC and govern stops directed by personnel or railroad crossing gates.

NFPA 1500

The national standard cited for requiring complete stops at red traffic lights, stop signs, negative right-of-way intersections, and blind intersections.

Negative Right-of-Way Intersections

Intersections where KCFD vehicle operators are mandated to bring the vehicle to a complete stop during an emergency response.

Blind Intersections

Intersections where a driver cannot account for all lanes of traffic, requiring a complete stop per NFPA 1500.

Stopped School Bus Rule

Vehicle operators must come to a complete stop when encountering a school bus with flashing warning lights during an emergency response.

Railroad Crossing Gate (Down)

A circumstance requiring a complete stop during an emergency response as dictated by GOG 10-29.

Unguarded Railroad Grade Crossings

Locations where operators must come to a complete stop during both emergency response and non-emergency travel to ensure it is safe to proceed.

Warning Devices

Equipment including lights, sirens, and air horns which do not automatically grant the right of way to an emergency vehicle.

Maximum Emergency Speed

Emergency vehicles are prohibited from exceeding the posted speed limit by more than $15\text{ miles per hour}$.

School Zone Speed Restriction

Emergency vehicles are strictly forbidden from exceeding the posted speed limit when reduced speed limits are in effect.

Speed Adjustment Factors

Road, traffic, and weather conditions that require KCFD operators to modify vehicle speed to ensure safe operations.