Fire officials warn drivers to watch for driving over fire hoses during active fire scenes following recent event in Paso Robles

PASO ROBLES, Calif. – Fire officials are warning drivers of the consequences of driving over fire hoses when firefighters are attacking a fire, following a recent occurrence over the weekend in Paso Robles.

The Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services provided the following:

PASO ROBLES - Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services responded to a fire along Stoney Creek Road and Rambouillet Road at 7:55 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9th. While pumping water from the hydrant across the street to the scene, multiple cars disregarded emergency vehicles acting as deterrents for traffic and struck the fire supply hose, causing damage and delaying the water supply to the scene.

Driving over a fire hose is not only illegal but dangerous to drivers, firefighters, and bystanders.

California Vehicle Code Section 21708 states, that no person shall drive or propel any vehicle or conveyance upon, over, or across, or in any manner damage any fire hose or chemical hose used by or under the supervision and control of any organized fire department. However, any vehicle may cross a hose provided suitable jumpers or other appliances are installed to protect the hose.

Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services do not have or provide ramps for vehicles to drive over the fire hose.