GM Awards Grant to National Volunteer Fire Council to Focus on Roadway Safety
November 19, 2024
For the fourth year, General Motors (GM) has awarded the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) a grant to make the roadways safer for emergency responders and the public. The grant for $155,000 will be used to provide critical training to emergency responders as well as promote driving safety and slow down, move over messaging.
The new grant will build on the NVFC’s previous efforts to positively impact vehicle and road safety for volunteer responders and road users. Specifically, the grant will enable the NVFC to focus on the following:
- Continue to educate drivers about slow down, move over laws and the dangers of distracted driving
- Continue to provide online training for responders on safe driving and electric vehicle response safety
- Promote national traffic incident management training for emergency responders
- Expand the NVFC’s offerings of in-person electric vehicle and alternative fuels vehicles training
Roadway response presents many dangers for the emergency personnel called to the scene. Being trained in traffic incident management enables response crews to protect themselves and those they are helping from hazards such as struck-by incidents. In addition, as more electric vehicles take to the roads, responders need to be prepared to properly respond to emergencies involving these vehicles.
Public education also plays a critical role in roadway safety. Drivers who are alert, avoid distractions, and slow down/move over when passing emergency scenes can help prevent tragedies and make the roadways safer for all.
“Thousands of people need assistance on the roadways every day, and many depend on volunteer firefighters and EMS responders to provide lifesaving services,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “Yet those very same responders are at risk of being struck and injured or killed by other motorists passing the incident. It is critical that we educate the public on how to safely pass an emergency scene and to make sure emergency personnel are best prepared to safely and effectively respond to roadway incidents.”
Find resources for making the roadways safer here.
