Admin-07 - Mandatory Seatbelt Usage

Mount Pleasant Volunteer Fire Department

Standard Operating Guidelines

Subject: Mandatory Seatbelt Usage SOG # Admin-07 Initiated 07/17/2024 Approved: Fire Chief Clay Fallis

Purpose

To establish appropriate and safe behavior regarding the use of safety belts when operating or riding in an emergency vehicle.

Guidelines

All persons driving or riding in fire department vehicles will be seated in approved riding positions with seatbelts or safety restraints fastened at all times when the vehicle is in motion. The driver will not begin to move the vehicle until all passengers are seated and properly secured. All passengers will remain seated and secure as long as the vehicle is in motion. Seatbelts will not be loosened or released while enroute to dress or don equipment. Members will not attempt to mount or dismount from a moving vehicle under any circumstances.

Exception

A fire department member who is providing direct patient care inside an ambulance will be permitted to release shortly the seat belt while the vehicle is in motion – IF IT IS ESSENTIAL TO PROVIDE PATIENT CARE. When the procedure has been completed, the fire department member will refasten the seatbelt. Time without the protection of a seat belt will be minimized.