What should be done to prepare an emergency vehicle before responding to a call?

Conducting a pre-trip inspection to ensure all systems are operational is crucial for preparing an emergency vehicle before responding to a call. This thorough check includes verifying critical systems such as brakes, lights, sirens, and communication equipment, which are essential for safe and effective operation during emergencies. A well-maintained vehicle enhances the responder's ability to perform efficiently and safely, preventing breakdowns or malfunctions during critical situations.

It's important to emphasize that relying on others to perform these checks or skipping them altogether could lead to dangerous outcomes. Vehicle preparedness is a personal responsibility for all operators, as it can significantly impact not just the responder’s safety, but also the safety of the public and any individuals they are responding to assist. Additionally, checking only fuel levels does not provide a complete picture of the vehicle's readiness, while being in a hurry is never an acceptable reason to bypass safety protocols.