Roadway Safety Tips - Tunnel Emergency Awareness

Save your life . . . not your car!

Public safety is a priority at MassDOT. Please follow these important safety tips when traveling through our tunnels. Please Remember - Fire and Smoke Can Kill!

Contact Us for more information.

If you are in an Accident or Disabled Vehicle in the Tunnels:

The tunnels are monitored by the Highway Operations Center on a twenty-four hour basis by personnel and a range of technology. State Police and MassDOT first responders are strategically located throughout the tunnel system to respond to incidents as soon as possible.

• Pull to side of the road, if you can
• Activate your hazard flashing lights
• Call 911 and follow instructions
• Stay in your vehicle if it is safe to do so
• Wait for emergency responders for assistance

When Entering A Tunnel . . .

• Stay alert!
• Turn on your headlights
• Obey all signs and signals
• Listen to media for traffic updates
• Do not enter if you notice smoke near the entrance or if your car is smoking or burning
• Maintain a safe driving distance
• Hazardous Materials are prohibited, including propane

In Congested Traffic . . .

• Listen to media for updates
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, even if traffic is moving slowly
• Note the location of emergency exits
• Follow the instructions of MassDOT officials, State Police, and message signs

If There's A Fire . . .

• Stop, turn off the engine, and exit your vehicle
• To assist emergency personnel, please leave your keys in the vehicle
• For your safety leave your belongings in the vehicle
• Call 911
• Follow the instructions of Fire Department, State Police, MassDOT officials, and message signs
• Exit at the nearest tunnel entrance, unless directed otherwise
• Assist others, if you can