The speed restrictions set forth in this traffic code shall not apply to an authorized emergency vehicle when responding to an emergency call, or when used in the pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law, or when responding to but not upon returning from a fire alarm, and the driver thereof sounds audible signal by bell, siren, or exhaust whistle, and when such emergency vehicle is equipped with at least one lighted lamp exhibiting a red or blue light visible under normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of 500 feet to the front of such vehicle. This provision shall not relieve the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the street, nor shall it protect the driver of any such vehicle from the consequences of such driver’s reckless disregard of the safety of others.
(Sec. 15-7.6, R.O. 1978 (1983 Ed.)) (1990 Code, Ch. 15, Art. 7, § 15-7.6)