SOG 2-10 SEAT BELT POLICY
A. Scope:
This operational guideline shall be utilized for the safety of all firefighters riding in fire
department vehicles.
B. Guidelines:
1. The driver of any Fire Department vehicle or apparatus shall be directly responsible
for the safe operation of the vehicle.
2. Drivers shall not move fire department vehicles or apparatus until all persons are
seated and secured with seat belts in approved riding positions.
3. The company officer/driver of the vehicle shall confirm that all personnel and riders
are on-board, with seat belts on, before the vehicle is placed in motion.
4. An officer or acting officer shall also assume responsibility for the actions of the
driver.
5. New Jersey State Motor Vehicle Laws require the use of seat belts in all motor
vehicles.
6. All persons riding in fire department vehicles or apparatus shall be seated and
secured by seat belts or safety harnesses at any time the vehicle is in motion.
7. Riding on tailboards, side steps, running boards, or in any other exposed positions or
standing while riding shall be prohibited.
8. Authorized exceptions to the seat belt requirement:
a. Department members are exempt from wearing seat belts while actively
performing emergency medical care while the vehicle is in motion,
b. When requirements to be seated and restrained with seat belts would
jeopardize patient care.
c. The driver shall take extraordinary precaution in recognition of the additional
danger that exists while driving with unrestrained member(s).
d. All other persons in the vehicle shall be seated and re-strained with seat belts
in approved riding positions while the vehicle is in motion.