"If you want to attract my attention, Governor, it's simpler to buzz me than to use sirens."

But symbolism goes only so far when money is tight, and towns that use sirens have had to make compromises.

A motorcycle escort picked them up but did not use sirens.

The police have agreed not to use sirens so neighbors aren't disturbed.

The authorities said Officer Farrell tried to pull over the car using his lights and sirens, but it only started moving faster.

Merely being authorised to use blue lights and sirens does not of itself grant exemptions from road traffic law.

The only motor vehicles permitted are police, ambulance, and fire, and they can't use sirens because of the horses.

The ambulance does not use lights and sirens to respond.

Vehicles that transport blood or donor organs may also use blue lights and sirens.

For safety reasons, they are forbidden to use their lights and sirens when responding to these calls, she said.