Flashing Headlights on fire appliances

[Rich]

Recently we have been advised not to drive at night with flashing headlights (alternate full beam) on as it was implied it may constitute a road traffic offence.  I have seen recent documentaries (railcops in particular) where the police are using these themselves.  

On some of our appliances the flasher still works with dipped headlights and on our newer appliances you have to switch off onto sidelights to get the flashing headlights to work.

Obviously we use them sensibly and they are extremely effective in a built up area at night.  However they are not effective on a dark country lane where visibility is important.    

Has anyone been given specific advice on when they can or cannot use them?

[Bluefire1]

Try this site

http://www.ukemergency.co.uk/information/bluelightuse.htm

[Rich]

Many thanks although it still does not define a specific when you can or cannot!

This appears to be a rather grey area!!

[Firewolf]

Hi there

Having read the guidance on ukemergency.com it states that an emergency vehicle can have flashing headlights!

Clearly at night flashing lights on full beam shouldn't be too much of a problem - I'm sure that the Government did some tests to establish if flashing main beam caused dazzling.

It suggest it is left to individual brigade poilcy perhaps?

[Cut Fire Service Pay]

I was taught on my EFAD coursesthat flashing headlights were a big NO NO at night. Alot of newer fire appliances are wired up so that when you put your headlights on at night the 'flashers' button won't work.

Although you still see the Police using them at night?

[Rich]

Yes I have no problem with daylight use, its just at night and the legality of it!