Volunteers want easier access to locations during emergencies, citing critical time constraints for red calls.
Cardiff Council says responders can use bus lanes and appeal parking tickets with proof of emergency. However, the appeal process can take time.
Roger says time is crucial for red calls, which involve life-threatening situations. He once parked on double yellow lines because he thought someone’s life was at risk.
Emergency responders get alerts for specific incidents and give care before the ambulance arrives. Amber calls are serious but not always life-threatening, while green calls are not serious.
Roger once parked safely during an emergency, but someone started to book him for a ticket. Then, an ambulance arrived on the scene, and he had to write letters to fight the ticket.
Roger wants recognition for helping the community. First responders follow the Highway Code, avoid speeding, and usually avoid bus lanes, though sometimes they enter them by accident.
Roger finds high congestion frustrating during red calls. He says delays decrease patient recovery chances roughly 10% per minute.
Councillors proposed a motion for bus lane access, and the council will consider easing road restrictions. This would apply to school zones and residential areas.
Roger is unsure how much time bus lanes would save, but he knows it would help them reach scenes faster. He has been a volunteer for nine years.
He gave an example of a long bus lane on his route, stating that being able to use it would save time. It would help volunteers better serve Cardiff.
The council will report on ways to support responders in three months. Councillors expressed their support for the proposal and thanked the first responders and ambulance service.
Paul Rudolph, who works with first responders, also noted that volunteers follow the Highway Code. He thinks faster response times can save lives.
He noted that many bus lanes exist in Cardiff centre. Parking would also become much easier, meaning getting closer to a patient’s property.
The council says emergency vehicles can use bus lanes with sirens. St John Ambulance responders can use bus lanes during emergencies and appeal tickets with proof of an emergency.
This policy applies to all volunteer first responders, and no prior medical training is needed for the role.