Firefighters Threaten To Ram Vehicles For Access
            February 1, 2007

Fire appliances will ram cars parked in narrow North Shore streets to clear their way in an emergency if necessary, say firefighters. Shore firefighters are warning some streets are too narrow and would create major problems getting to a fire or accident scene.

Albany station officer Ron Henderson says it's a particular problem in new Albany subdivisions.

"The Fire Service would remove a vehicle forcibly if necessary, if a person's life is in danger," he says.

"Even if the vehicle's legally parked, we will force entry."

Mr Henderson says it's not uncommon for fire engines to have to travel partially along footpaths, and sometimes vehicles have to be moved.

Greenhithe Fire Brigade is particularly concerned about Te Wharau Drive because fire engines can't fit down the residential street when cars are parked along both sides, which they usually are.