As the busy summer period approaches, motorists are reminded to give way to Western Power emergency response vehicles with Western Power installing blue and red emergency lights on all 35 of its specialised emergency response vehicles following a successful trial in 2023.
Western Power Asset Operations Executive Manager Zane Christmas said the installation of red and blue lights on emergency vehicles, which was undertaken in partnership with the Department of Transport, will improve the visibility of our vehicles and greatly improve emergency response times.
“We know not everyone is aware Western Power emergency vehicles operate under the same authority as ambulances and fire and emergency service vehicles,” Mr Christmas said.
“However, Western Power response vehicles operate in emergency situations across our Perth metro network as we need to be able to quickly respond to mitigate safety risks including potentially life-threatening situations.
“This can include ensuring power infrastructure is de-energised to enable other emergency services to safely access a house fire, making storm-damaged equipment safe, or quickly responding to the report of an electric shock.
“Our crews work hard in some really challenging conditions every day to keep the community safe.
“A fast response to incidents like these can make a big difference to the outcome on the ground.
“That means, if a vehicle approaches with its lights and sirens on, please give way as soon as it is safe to do so, because every minute counts when teams are on their way to an incident.
“Your help on the roads is appreciated and will help us make hazards safe for the community more quickly.”