During what situation should a pedestrian refrain from using pedestrian areas?

Refraining from using pedestrian areas when emergency service vehicles are present is crucial for safety and ensuring the swift movement of these vehicles. Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars, often need to navigate through traffic and may not stop for pedestrians. In situations where these vehicles are responding to emergencies, any obstruction can delay critical services. Therefore, it is advisable for pedestrians to stay clear of designated pedestrian areas when emergency services are actively working in or around those spaces.

While construction sites can pose hazards, and empty roads might seem safe for pedestrians, the priority during emergencies is to allow emergency vehicles unobstructed access. Public holidays also do not inherently involve emergency hazards that would necessitate avoiding pedestrian areas.