Does snow slow police and fire response times?


Q: Does the snow slow police and fire response times?

A: Yes. But police and firefighters say they will still immediately respond to emergencies.

All Seattle police cars had chains Thursday, department spokesman Mark Jamieson said. All fire department rigs also had chains, according to spokeswoman Dana Vander Houwen.

“If somebody lives at the top of a hill, we may stop at the bottom and walk up, rather than just driving straight up to house and risk getting stuck.” Jamieson said. “There are definitely some judgment calls.”

Some reports – such as car prowls or non-emergency situations – may be handled over the phone, or officers may take extra time responding to those cases in person.

“But rest assured,” Jamieson said. “If there’s an emergency, the police will be there.”

Vander Houwen said firefighters experienced no significant problems through Thursday afternoon.

But the side streets, where many people get stuck, were a potential problem.

“That’s why it’s important for people not to leave their cars in the middle of the road,” she said.


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    Categories: Answers for Readers
    Casey McNerthney

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