A Stafford County Fire and Rescue EMS supervisor was attempting to reach the scene of a motor vehicle crash on Tuesday, Aug. 11, when another driver reportedly took their eyes off the road to look at the original wreck, according to the Stafford Volunteer Fire Department.
Then came the impact.
The approaching vehicle slammed head-on into the supervisor's emergency vehicle, leaving both with heavy front-end damage.
A photo released by the department shows just how violent the collision was, with the front of the other vehicle crumpled against the Stafford County truck.
Thankfully, firefighters said, the close call became a warning instead of a tragedy.
The EMS supervisor, who is based at Station 2 and works alongside volunteer and career personnel, was evaluated and cleared following the crash, according to the department.
But firefighters say the circumstances behind the wreck should serve as a warning to every driver approaching flashing lights.
"PAY ATTENTION. SLOW DOWN. STAY ALERT," the department said.
According to the agency, the other driver's attention was reportedly fixed on the original crash scene rather than the roadway ahead when the head-on collision occurred.
It is exactly the kind of danger first responders face while already working alongside moving traffic.
"When you approach an emergency scene, please keep driving. Don’t sightsee," firefighters said. "Flashing lights, fire apparatus, police vehicles, damaged cars, and emergency personnel naturally catch your attention—but your responsibility remains the roadway in front of you."
The department urged motorists to slow down, eliminate distractions, watch for emergency personnel and apparatus moving around a scene, and move over when required and safe to do so.
"Firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, law enforcement officers, tow operators, and roadway workers already operate in an incredibly hazardous environment," the department said. "They should not have to wonder whether the next approaching vehicle is actually paying attention."
This time, everyone gets to go home.
"We’re extremely thankful that our colleague is okay," the department said. "Please help us make sure everyone working along Stafford County’s roadways gets to go home safely."
Their message to motorists was simple:
"Slow down. Move over. Stay alert."
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