Press Release: Fire Lanes

September 3, 2007 –How many times has it irritated you to drive to your local shopping area to find a car parked in the fire lane? The message is simple; the message is clear and direct!  "NO PARKING - FIRE LANE" means just that.  When there is a fire or related emergency, police, fire and medical vehicles need to have proper access so that the vehicles can get close enough to the buildings for rescue, fire fighting and emergency medical duties.

The Wilton Fire Department reminds you that leaving your vehicle unattended in a fire lane may hamper emergency efforts and simply parking your vehicle leaves you open to a fine. Remember— if you park there, others will think it is acceptable to park there... and it isn't. It is against the law.

You may think it’s overkill, but when was the last time you had to move 150’ of fire hose around someone’s car or delivery truck to put out a fire, or carry someone ill or injured to an ambulance? Every step, every foot, every car or truck in the way makes a difference in the efficiency of fire and life safety.

The Wilton Fire Department wants you to realize that these areas are important to you and your neighbors’ safety. Whether at a shopping center, the post office, apartment building, or picking up the kids from school, when they are needed the fire lanes must be available. Park there illegally and it may cost you a fine, towing charge or both! More importantly, it may result in more property damage, illness or injury.