Tulsa-Area First Responders Reminding Drivers To Slow Down And Move Over For Traffic Crashes

It's 'Crash Responder Safety Week,' and Tulsa-area first responders are reminding drivers to slow down and move over when they see roadside incidents.

The Tulsa Fire Department told News On 6 it has responded to more than 6,400 crashes in the past year.

While first responders are trying to save lives, they ask drivers to give them space.

Four people were hurt, including two Tulsa police officers, during a traffic stop Monday when a suspected drunk driver crashed into the officers and another driver.

Lt. Paul Madden said what is even more common than drunk driving is distracted driving.

"It's become pretty much accepted, but it is against the law,” said Madden. “Please put your phones down."

Tulsa police, Tulsa firefighters, Tulsa County deputies and EMSA met Wednesday afternoon to share important reminders.

Josh Yochim with EMSA said drivers often do not slow down or move over.

"That's very frustrating because in these emergency situations, the last thing that I'm thinking about, the last thing that paramedics or EMTs are thinking about is whether or not our lives are in danger," explained Yochim.

Fire Chief Michael Baker said his department responds to more than 500 crashes a month.

Baker said crews are constantly learning how to better protect themselves from dangers of the road.

"Additionally, we are utilizing other systems and exploring new technology, such as traffic warning devices that will integrate into Wyze and other traffic alerting systems and vehicles," explained Baker.

Sheriff Vic Regalado said traffic crashes tend to go up during the winter season because of weather conditions, holiday events and the sun setting earlier.

"If that was your family member, would you want our first responders paying 100 percent of their attention to saving that person's life instead of having to worry about getting run over by inattentive drivers?" asked Regalado.

First responders said they hope drivers can change their behavior and be an example to other drivers.

They said another thing drivers can do is to turn on their hazard lights or tap their breaks to let other drivers know to pay attention ahead.