INTRODUCTION

"Code 3" is defined as driving through traffic with the use of emergency lights and siren. "Code 1" is defined as driving without lights or siren. The risks of Code 3 Operations are:

1. Increased risk of serious injury to EMT, patient, and/or bystanders.
2. Increased difficulty in patient care in compartment.
3. Unpredictable physiologic effects on the patient from acceleration/deceleration and centripetal forces.

1. Marginal improvement in response and transport times.
2. Reinforces the urgency of situation to all involved.
3. Conveys that EMT recognized potential seriousness of pateint's condition.

1. When Responding to Emergent Call:
   1. Code 3 shall be utilized to respond to calls of an emergent nature.
   2. The responding unit should be downgraded to Code 1 when the First Response agency has completed an intial assessment (including 1st set of vitals) and the EMT on scene is at the Paramedic Level, and that EMT feels the patient is stable and the risks of a continued Code 3 response of additional responding agencies outway the benefit.
   3. A Code 3 response will require use of both lights and siren, and shall not exceed the posted speed limit by greater than 10 MPH on any given street, highway, or Interstate road.
   4. The EMS service may use common sense while using their siren. You may turn the siren off when no signs of traffic are noted (i.e., calls late at night). Although use caution while proceeding through intersections, it is recommended to utilize a short audible warning prior to proceeding through an intersection.

2. When Transporting Patients.
   1. Use Code 3 mode when, in your judgement, the benefit of Code 3 operation outwieghs the potential risks. (Specifically patients you consider "unstable" and you have not been able to "stabilize" prior to initiating transport).

1. The following conditions should be considered relative contraindications to Code 3 Transport.
   1. Patients presenting in asystole without cardiac changes through initial resuscitation.
   2. Pulseless and apneic blunt trauma patients.
   3. Severe weather conditions, or other situations with poor traction or visibility.