What is *NOT* considered an authorized emergency vehicle?

An authorized emergency vehicle is typically one that is responding to an emergency situation. In this context, the certified EMT responding to a non-emergency call does not qualify as an authorized emergency vehicle because their response does not pertain to an urgent or life-threatening situation that would require the use of sirens or lights, as seen in true emergency responses.

In contrast, a police cruiser responding to a call is always regarded as an authorized emergency vehicle, as it is equipped and authorized to respond to incidents that are emergency-related. Similarly, a licensed public ambulance is designated to transport individuals during emergencies and is recognized as an authorized emergency vehicle. The personal vehicle of a volunteer firefighter, although not a standard emergency response vehicle, may still be used in certain situations under the appropriate conditions, making it eligible for emergency designation in those instances.

Overall, the distinction lies in the nature of the call being responded to—only situations classified as emergencies justify the designation of a vehicle as an authorized emergency vehicle.