Awareness and respect.
That's what Coquitlam residents are being asked to consider when first responders are tending to any kind of emergency situation, especially when driving near or walking by a potentially dangerous scene.
The public reminder comes more than two months after a water supply line was permanently damaged by a speeding driver while Coquitlam Fire Rescue crews were extinguishing a downtown house blaze.
In a statement, Fire Chief Jim Ogloff explains the incident took place in May 2021 on Nestor Street.
As crews were battling the flames, he says a vehicle drove "at high speed" through the scene and ran over a water supply line, punching several holes in it and causing unfixable damage.
No injuries or significant harm was officially reported but Ogloff explains unforeseen circumstances could have led to serious, "frightening" or potentially fatal consequences.
He offers two examples of what could have transpired:
- If a supply line is charged (filled with water) and becomes severed, it can whip around and hit a member of the public or crew — potentially killing them if the heavy metal coupling was attached
- If a line is providing water to the engine for hoses being used to actively fight a structure fire, a puncture would cut off a critical lifeline to firefighters and anyone inside a building
According to B.C.'s Motor Vehicle Act, driving over a hose is a listed offence and results in an $81 ticket if caught.
Coquitlam Fire Prevention and Life Safety bylaw tickets can also be issued to anyone who impedes fire crews or gets too close to fire hoses.
"Inattentive or curious bystanders or passersby near emergency scenes can be distracting and, in some cases, threaten the safety of the public and personnel," Ogloff further explains.
"Even if they are well-meaning, people crowding a scene can impede or divert crews from their important work protecting lives and property."
Ogloff encourages the use of common sense and to stay clear of an emergency scene and follow instructions of all personnel in order to keep everyone safe.
"Flashing emergency lights are a signal for the public to slow down and move over, be aware and follow any guidance provided — whether that is a detour sign, a person directing traffic or tape cordoning off a scene."
Coquitlam has also listed the following tips on what pedestrians and drivers should do in ensuring emergency scene safety:
- Slow down and pay attention to what is happening around you
- Follow the direction of personnel or signs at the scene
- Curious passersby driving to the scene to have a look is strongly discouraged as vehicles could impede firefighters’ progress
- Leave the scene unless you are required or asked to remain there (e.g. an accident witness or participant, owner of property on fire)
- If you must remain at the scene, stay back from emergency response personnel, vehicles, equipment and hoses and avoid blocking or disturbing neighbours
- Ensure your own vehicle is parked well out of the way
For more information, you can visit the fire safety page on the city's website.
