The Excelsior Springs Fire Department is reminding residents about the importance of adhering to parking regulations in fire lanes, as outlined in the International Fire Code adopted by the City of Excelsior Springs.
According to a recent statement posted on the Fire Department’s Facebook page, fire lanes are a critical component of fire protection systems at public facilities, and parking in these areas is strictly prohibited for non-fire department vehicles, regardless of the reason.
Fire lanes ensure that emergency responders have quick, unobstructed access to vital areas in case of emergencies. These lanes are also necessary for other essential activities, such as fire inspections, public relations efforts, and the procurement of resources.
“Illegally parking in a fire lane can delay emergency response times, block access to fires, and obstruct key infrastructure, such as fire hydrants and Fire Department Connections (FDCs), which are crucial for building fire suppression systems,” the statement reads.
The Fire Department emphasized that vehicles parked illegally in fire lanes will be subject to fines and/or towing at the owner’s expense. However, buses and other transportation vehicles are exempt from this rule as long as they remain continuously manned.
Fire lanes are clearly marked with No Parking – Fire Lane signage, yellow or red road stripes, and curbs often painted red or yellow to make the designated areas easily identifiable.
The Fire Department urges all residents to be mindful of these rules and help ensure the safety of the community by keeping fire lanes clear for emergency use.
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