(A) Officers of the police department or such officers as are assigned by the chief of police are authorized to direct all traffic by voice, hand, or signal in conformance with the traffic code and state law; provided that, in the event of a fire or other emergency or to expedite traffic or to safeguard pedestrians, officers of the police department may direct traffic as conditions may require notwithstanding the provisions of the traffic code or state law.
(B) Officers of the fire department, when in uniform, may direct or assist the police in directing traffic.
(`61 Code, § 15.11)