Although many of today s lawsuits involve personal injury or product liability, the majority of cases relating to EMTs relate to improper care. As you well know, the prehospital run report becomes a part of the patients permanent medical record, as well as a legal document in a court proceeding. Keep in mind that your report will be reviewed by many others both inside and outside of the EMS system. From The Chief, Part II I want members of the department to review their Policy Guidelines on the use of red lights in their vehicles. I have implemented a policy effective 13 April 1995 authorizing members to use a red light on private vehicles when responding to an alarm.
Members can only use one red light per vehicle.
This is limited to a single light mounted or placed on top of the dashboard, in the front windshield of the vehicle only. There will be no lightbar attachments, remote dual strobes or wig wag lights. When responding to an alarm, individuals are expected to report directly to their assigned station. No one is authorized to report directly to the emergency scene in their private vehicle. The red light is to be used only within the City and Village of Pewaukee limits.