Here's Why Waterford Police Won't Let You Sit In A Fire Lane

WATERFORD, CT – Waterford police have taken to Facebook to explain to residents why they move along not just people who are parked in fire lanes, but also those who sit in their cars to wait for people while pulled into a fire lane.

"If the driver is still in the car and not parked, why does the officer make people move?" police asked on Facebook. "We have several reasons why we do it."

According to police, the lanes are designated for emergency vehicles only, and both time and location can be critical in the event of a true emergency. The waiting car might also be blocking ramps used for wheelchairs and strollers.

A vehicle in the lane can also cause line of sight issues for people crossing to and from the store or building, regardless of whether the driver is still in the vehicle. According to police, there have been many close calls and some crashes as a result of this.

"In Waterford, often times those who shoplift have someone waiting in a car and they stop in the fire lanes, which is close to where the person in the store would exit," police said. "By moving the car, we can slightly disrupt the plans."

Police also acknowledge there are times where it might be necessary to pull into the fire lane, such as a heavy rainstorm.

"We generally don’t interfere with that," police said," but will move you along soon thereafter."

Check the Waterford Police Department Facebook page for further information.

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