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Members bill would give electricians flashing lights for emergency situations

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 22 Jan 2020, 4:07PM
Accidents such as cars hitting a power pole require electricians to declare the scene as safe before emergency staff can tend to patients. (Photo / File)

Members bill would give electricians flashing lights for emergency situations

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 22 Jan 2020, 4:07PM

Vector is backing a bill that would give electricians flashing vehicle lights for emergency situations. 

Currently, when a vehicle becomes involved in an accident such as hitting a power pole, first responders can't start rescue operations until a line mechanic declares the scene safe.

However, traffic congestion in cities such as Auckland means that electricians often arrive at the scene late. 

Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown has submitted a bill to amend Land Transport Rules, which would force cars to give way to vehicles responding to electrical emergencies.

It would allow electricians to use flashing vehicle lights, similar to ones used by ambulances and other emergency vehicles. 

Vector's Marko Simunac says flashing lights will speed things up.

"We believe that this is for the benefit of the community, because the problem which we are currently facing is that our assets are getting hit quite often, [about] every seven hours."

 

 

 

 

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