A picture has captured the moment when an emergency vehicle became wedged between a parked car while out on an urgent call in Bristol last week.
The picture, taken in the early hours of Wednesday morning (April 13) at around 12.15 am, shows the emergency vehicle stuck in between a parked car on a residential street in the BS7 area.
An eyewitness, who has asked not to be named, reported that the fire engine was stuck for five minutes by a car parked on the pavement, subsequently blocking the street.
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The person who took the photograph claims this is "at least an annual occurrence" and happens elsewhere across the city, citing St Andrews, Bishopston, and Southville as other hotspots for apparent pavement parking. "We are bordering a Reduced Parking Zone and get all the overflow traffic," they explained.
"Every second counts when firefighters are responding to a 999 call. Time spent trying to squeeze between parked cars could put lives at risk," a statement reads on Avon Fire and Rescue website.
It continues, "Our nightmare is not being able to get to the people who need us."
A spokesperson said: “When disaster strikes, every second counts. If you park inconsiderately and block our access, we may not be able to quickly get to those who need us.
According to Avon Fire and Rescue considerate parking guide, there are a few simple steps motorists can take to ensure their vehicle does not cause an obstruction:
- Avoid parking too close to junctions - fire engines are larger than cars and need more room to turn corners
- If you are parking opposite another vehicle, remember that a fire engine needs at least two car widths to fit through
- Park as close to the kerb as you can
The Avon and Somerset Police also outline what people must do when reporting parking issues on its website.
A statement reads: "Your local council is responsible for the enforcement of parking offences. The Police will only deal with vehicles causing a hazard or obstruction."
For more information, click here.
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