White Light Policy

The Department will provide an active member of the Department a Dash light and reflective mirror. The Dash light and reflective mirror will be the property of the Department. In the event of resignation of the member, the property will be returned.

The use of white flashing light, Iowa Law permits the use of a white flashing light for identification of emergency medical providers and service medical directors in the following circumstances:

q When responding to an emergency in the line of duty

q When at the scene of an emergency

q When transporting a patient during a disaster

“White flashing light” means any clear or white rotating, flashing or strobe light used for identification purpose only. Under no circumstances shall a constant white light be displayed to the rear of the vehicle.

White flashing light authorization certificates (permits) may also be issued for emergency medical vehicles (i.e. ambulance, first response vehicle). The use of your emergency (four-way/hazard) flashers is also required when displaying the white flashing light.

Displaying the white flashing lights does NOT grant the right of way. The white flashing light is intended for identification purpose only. It does NOT permit the member to violate speed limits, ignore traffic signals/signs or violate any other laws governing vehicle operation. The white flashing light is requesting courtesy from other drivers while maneuvering through traffic.

When mounting white light, the operator of the vehicle must ensure that the light does not obstruct the view of the vehicle operator, does not overburden the vehicle electrical system and does not interfere with vision of individuals in other vehicles.

To operate a private vehicle with white flashing lights you must maintain:

q A current vehicle registration

q Liability insurance

q A valid operator’s license

q Completion course in EVO provided by the department.

Any member who has knowledge of anyone who has violated any of Iowa’s laws or administrative rules relating to the use of the white flashing lights shall report that information to any one of the Departmental Officers.

The Department may deny an application, and the Department may place on probation, suspend or revoke a permit for:

q Failure to follow the rules governing white flashing lights

q A moving violation conviction while using white flashing lights

q Use of white flashing lights without obtaining a permit

q Failure to have a valid operator’s license

q Failure to have a current vehicle registration