As a first responder in Monmouth County, NJ, it is harrowing to be stuck at a red light while someone nearby is choking or in cardiac arrest, unable to rush to their aid because of traffic restrictions. Currently, volunteers are only permitted to use blue light permits when responding to an emergency, which can substantially increase response times.

Sadly, these seconds can make the difference between life and death. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, for sudden cardiac arrest victims, every minute without CPR or defibrillation decreases the chances of survival by 7-10% (Circulation AHA Journals).

We propose upgrading the emergency responding permits for volunteers from blue lights to red lights and sirens, as used by professional emergency services. This change would not just reduce the time it takes for volunteers to respond to emergencies; it could potentially save lives.

This shift won't just aid us, the responders, but also those who entrust their lives to us, the residents of Monmouth County. Please sign this petition to support the urgent revision of our response standards. Together, let's help our community receive quicker, more effective emergency aid.