What is the difference between a pursuit and an emergency response?

The distinction between a pursuit and an emergency response lies primarily in the nature of the incidents they address. A pursuit specifically refers to the act of chasing a suspect who is fleeing from law enforcement. This scenario typically involves high speeds and can vary in urgency based on the nature of the crime the suspect is involved in; pursuits are marked by the officer's need to apprehend a person who is actively evading capture.

In contrast, an emergency response usually involves traveling to an incident where immediate action is required but does not necessarily entail chasing a suspect. Emergency responses may include situations like medical emergencies, accidents, or other urgent calls for assistance, with officers responding in a manner that is appropriate to the situation but still mindful of traffic laws. This ensures the safety of both the officers and the public while addressing the emergency at hand.

In summary, a pursuit is characterized by the active engagement in chasing a fleeing suspect, whereas an emergency response is broader and encompasses various urgent situations, with adherence to traffic laws being a central aspect.