Chicago Police DepartmentGeneral Order G03-03-02
Emergency Vehicle Operations – Nonpursuits
Issue Date:24 April 2003Effective Date:01 June 2003
Rescinds:G03-02-02
Index Category:Field Operations
I.Purpose
This directive establishes policy, procedures, and responsibilities for the use of nonpursuit emergency vehicle operation by Department members.
II.Policy
The use of nonpursuit emergency vehicle operation by Department members is limited to the following:
  • A.The dispatch priority protocol as defined in the Department directive entitled "Radio Communications".
    1.Priority 010-1, police or fireEmergency vehicle operation is justified
    2.Priority 1Immediate DispatchEmergency vehicle operation is justified
    3.Priority 2Rapid DispatchEmergency vehicle operation is discretionary
    4.Priority 3Routine DispatchEmergency vehicle operation is prohibited
    5.Priority 4Administrative DispatchEmergency vehicle operation is prohibited
    NOTE:
    When a unit receives an assignment from OEMC, the priority designation of the assignment is indicated on the portable data terminal screen (PDT). A unit that is not issued a PDT or seeks to verify the priority designation of an assignment will obtain clarification from the OEMC dispatcher.
  • B.An "emergency situation", that:
    • 1.is encountered on-view, or
    • 2.otherwise comes to the attention of the vehicle operator after the unit receives an assignment from OEMC.
III.Department Emergency Vehicle Operation Procedures
  • A.Marked vehicles
    When engaged in nonpursuit emergency vehicle operation, the operator of a marked vehicle will:
    • 1.activate the emergency-roof lights;
    • 2.activate the siren in advance of encountering any traffic obstruction or to alert others of the approach of his or her vehicle;
      NOTE:
      When in close proximity to a crime scene, the operator may exercise discretion in the use of lights and siren.
    • 3.adhere to basic traffic-safety practices;
    • 4.operate the vehicle at a speed and in a manner compatible with weather and local conditions to ensure that control of the vehicle is maintained at all times;
    • 5.proceed through intersections or traffic signals only after determining it is reasonable and safe to proceed;
    • 6.yield the right-of-way to all pedestrian traffic;
    • 7.ensure that the emergency-roof lights remain illuminated on limited-access highways until the police vehicle and the overtaken or disabled vehicle are safely positioned off the main portion of the roadway.
  • B.Unmarked Vehicles
    When engaged in nonpursuit emergency vehicle operation, the operator of an unmarked vehicle will:
    • 1.activate the high-beam flashing headlights;
    • 2.comply with the provisions of Items II-A-2 through 7 of this directive.
Terry G. Hillard
Superintendent of Police
03-009 DK