Firefighters are pictured putting up one of the signs.

29 September 2010

Firefighters in High Wycombe are piloting a scheme to encourage residents to make sure there is enough room in their roads for emergency service vehicles to pass.

They are using lamppost-mounted signs to remind motorists that they need to leave 10 feet (3 metres) clearance when they park.

The scheme has been launched in Tyzack Road, Terriers. White Watch Manager Eamonn Eddowes said: “We chose this road because we had previously identified it as one where parking has been a problem.

"We are urging residents to think about their parking as they could be putting the lives of their families, friends and neighbours at risk.

“If our access to a specific road or home is restricted, it can mean the difference between the emergency services saving a life or not.

“Cars may be able to pass down streets which have restricted access due to double parking or incorrect parking, but fire engines and ambulances can’t."

Firefighters are currently monitoring the road at different times of the day. If they continue to encounter difficulties, they will place reminders on specific vehicles.

The signs, headed “Please let us through – someone needs our help”, are based on a poster produced jointly by Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, Thames Valley Police and South Central Ambulance Service.

Road safety manager Keith Wheeler said: “Many streets were not designed to accommodate the number of cars that residents want to park in them. This initiative will help stations try to tackle the problem of inappropriate parking in their local streets.

“It will also support the work of many Neighbourhood Action Groups who have highlighted parking problems as an issue of local concern.”

Firefighters organised the pilot as part of an ongoing initiative in which they identify and minimise risks in the neighbourhoods they serve.