An Antioch Fire Department engine responding to an emergency call was hit by an SUV along Route 173 in Antioch as officials say the incident serves as an “important reminder” about being alert for emergency vehicles.
The Antioch Fire Department responded around 3:50 p.m. Wednesday to the area of North Avenue east of Deep Lake Road in unincorporated Antioch for a report of a vehicle crash with injuries.
Antioch Fire Department Battalion Chief Tim Taylor said Fire Engine 211 was responding to the call and was at Route 173 and Deep Lake Road when they became involved in a crash just before 4 p.m.
The fire apparatus was in the process of clearing the intersection when it was struck by an SUV.
The fire crew was not reported to be injured but was evaluated and they declined transport to the hospital, Taylor said.
The driver of the SUV, an adult male, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
The fire engine sustained minor damage and was able to be kept in service for calls, Taylor said.
Antioch Police Department Commander of Patrol Jared Brussaly said the crash remained under investigation as of Friday and no citations have been issued so far.
An initial investigation shows the fire engine was driving in its official capacity with lights and sirens activated at the time of the crash, Brussaly said.
Brussaly said the Chevrolet Suburban failed to yield to the emergency vehicle.
The driver of the Chevrolet was the sole occupant of the vehicle and no other vehicles were involved in the crash.
The Antioch Fire Department said they were thankful that everyone involved was okay but that it serves as an “important reminder about sharing the road with emergency vehicles.”
“When you see emergency lights and hear sirens: Move to the right and stop when safe to do so. Do not follow closely behind emergency vehicles. Never attempt to pass a stopped emergency vehicle with lights activated unless directed by law enforcement. Stay alert and avoid distractions — seconds matter during an emergency response,” the department said.
“Our crews respond to emergencies every day to help those in need, but we need your help getting there safely. Please remember that emergency vehicles may approach intersections, travel against traffic patterns, or make sudden maneuvers while responding to calls,” the department added.
Officials say a few extra seconds of awareness can save lives and motorists should slow down, stay alert and move over when emergency vehicles are responding.