P.E.I. amends Highway Traffic Act to permit fire trucks, ambulances to use flashing blue lights

Jan. 9, 2025, Prince Edward Island — Prince Edward Island has amended its provincial Highway Traffic Act to allow fire trucks and ambulances to use flashing blue lights in emergencies.

The change comes at the request of paramedics and firefighters, who outlined that using blue lights helps vehicles stand out more clearly from regular vehicle lights or traffic lights, particularly in lower visibility situations like fog or nighttime.

The vehicles will join police, snowplows and highway maintenance vehicles and other emergency responders with special permission in the use of blue flashing lights, the provinces reported in a press release.

“Studies have shown that blue lights dramatically improve safety and increase visibility for first responders while responding to emergencies,” said Anson Grant, chief of the North River Fire Department, in a media release. “This will also improve roadside safety as our firefighters work to help those in need.”