Urgent Situations: Deal with crisis in a timely manner. - Fire departments express concern over parking-related impediments caused by non-compliant motorists.
Fire departments in Saxony-Anhalt frequently face challenges due to parking offenders during rescue missions. Kai-Uwe Lohse, head of the state fire department, mentioned this issue to the German Press Agency, expressing his frustration. He urges both public order offices and citizens to be more considerate. He emphasizes that knowing about no parking and no stopping signs is not just for fun; they have a purpose. The rules are there for a reason, and it's vital to follow them – walking a little further is worth it.
Magdeburg, the state capital, acknowledged this problem when asked. Their spokesperson explained that they conduct periodic spot checks to see how firefighters navigate residential areas in case of an emergency. The goal of these checks is to raise public awareness about the obstructions caused by illegal parking, as every minute counts in emergencies. Narrow roads and junctions are the most challenging parts.
The Ministry of the Interior chimed in, stressing that halting and parking on narrow or confusing roads and near sharp turns is illegal under road traffic regulations. Abandoned vehicles that create risks or interrupt firefighters' efforts could be towed away, a spokeswoman noted.
The city of Magdeburg disclosed that fines for impeding emergency vehicles range from 30 to 100 euros. "Since towing vehicles often becomes necessary, the expenses are added to this," the spokesperson clarified.
Recently, Wernigerode introduced significant changes in confined areas. The city removed 36 parking spots in town and its districts to allow for easier access to escape routes. The Wernigerode fire department tested various streets, resulting in the need to eliminate additional parking spots in the future. The spokesperson revealed that these inconveniently parked cars commonly obstruct firefighting efforts. Usually, offenders face a warning and a fine, and their vehicles might be relocated for a fee if needed.
Read also:
- Schalke nears massive changes
- Immediately renew Terzic's contract.
- Thuringia's local elections see no major victory for AfD; many races go to a second round.
- Forever imprisoned are Lea's disturbing parents.
Source: www.stern.de
