Brian Swan asked what the general practice was regarding the use of sirens and emergency lights by fire engines (South China Morning Post, September 4).
Sirens and emergency lights serve to warn road users of the approach of fire engines during emergency journeys - for instance, when attending a fire scene or a traffic accident.
Unless a fire engine has to go through red traffic lights or traffic signs, the officer-in-charge will use his discretion to switch off the siren if he can (depending on traffic conditions) to avoid causing an unnecessary nuisance.
Under what we categorise as an 'emergency', fire engines sometimes will be on 'relief' or 'move-up' duties, which means a replacement crew is on its way to take over in a prolonged incident or a reinforcement is required by a fire station.
Again, the officer-in-charge will exercise his discretion, sometimes switching off the siren but keeping the emgergency light on.
The discipline and working procedures of firefighters are strictly described by departmental orders and regulations. I cannot imagine any drivers of fire engines would adopt a 'Hey, look at me' mentality, as alleged by your correspondent, as it is our daily job to attend to emergencies.