HB1771 Summary

• Permits volunteer firefighters to equip privately owned vehicles with emergency flashing red or white lights (or a combination) subject to authorization from the local fire chief.

• Requires the local fire chief to have sole discretion in designating which volunteer firefighters may use emergency flashing lights during emergencies.

• Mandates that volunteer firefighters carry a signed, written authorization statement from the fire chief in their vehicle whenever emergency lights are in use.

• Specifies that emergency lights must be visible at 500 feet in normal sunlight conditions.

• Amends 47 O.S. 2011, Section 12-227 to add volunteer firefighter vehicles as an exception to prohibited flashing light restrictions; effective November 1, 2013.