SAFETY MESSAGE TO OPERATORS OF
UNITROL ELECTRONIC SIRENS AND
LIGHT/SOUND SYSTEMS
WARNING
The lives of people depend on your operation of
UNITROL products. It is important to read and
follow all instructions shipped with the products.
In addition, listed below are some other important
safety instructions and precautions you should
follow.
Be aware that the use of your visual and audible
signaling devices does not give you the right to force
your way through traffic. Your emergency lights,
siren, and actions are REQUESTING the
right-of-way.
Although your warning system is operating properly
it may not alert everyone. People may not hear, see,
or heed your warning signal. You must recognize this
fact and continue driving cautiously.
Situations may occur which obstruct your warning
signal when natural or man-made objects are
between your vehicle and others, such as when you
raise your hood or trunk lid. If these situations occur,
be especially careful.
To properly use a light system you must have a
good understanding of general vehicle operation,
a high proficiency in the use of safety warning
equipment and thorough knowledge of State and
Federal UNIFORM TRAFFIC CODES.
Qualifications
Sound Hazards
Your hearing, and the hearing of others in or close
to your emergency vehicle could be damaged by
loud sounds. This can occur from short exposures
to very loud sounds or from longer exposures to
moderately loud sounds. For hearing conservation
guidance, refer to Federal, State or local
recommendations.
OSHA Standard 1910.95
offers guidance on
“Permissible Noise Exposure”
.
All effective sirens and horns produce loud sounds
which may, in certain situations, cause permanent
hearing loss. You should minimize your exposure
times and wear suitable hearing protection.
Sound Limitations
Maximum sound output will be severely reduced
if any objects are in front of the speaker. If your
installation has obstructions in front of the speaker,
drive even more cautiously.
Frequently inspect the speaker to ensure that it is
clear of any obstruction such as mud or snow, which
will reduce maximum sound output.
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Signaling Limitations
Driving Limitations
At the start of your shift, you should ensure that the
warning system is securely attached to the vehicle
and operating properly.
If the unique combination of emergency vehicle
equipment installed in your vehicle has resulted
in the light/siren controls being installed in a
position that does not allow you to operate them
by touch only,
OPERATE CONTROLS ONLY
WHEN VEHICLE IS STOPPED.
If driving conditions require your full attention, you
should avoide operating the light/siren controls
while the vehicle is in motion.
Continuing Education
File these instructions in a safe place and refer
to them periodically. Give a copy of these
instructions to new recruits and trainees.
Failure to follow these safety precautions may
result in property damage, serious injury, death
to you, your passengers or to others.
