While driving under "Code 3" exemptions, when may you disobey a red light?

When operating under "Code 3" exemptions, which typically allow for lights and sirens to be used when responding to emergencies, disobeying a red light requires that the driver approaches the intersection with caution. The correct answer emphasizes that the driver must slow down to 15 mph before proceeding through the red light. This requirement is to ensure the safety of both the emergency vehicle's crew and the public. By reducing speed to 15 mph, the driver can assess the situation at the intersection, allowing for a safer passage through the potentially hazardous area.

The other options suggest varying practices that might not sufficiently prioritize safety or do not adhere to established protocols for emergency response. For instance, maintaining a speed of 30 mph or declaring an absence of traffic does not inherently ensure that the intersection is clear or safe to cross, while failing to come to a full stop before proceeding could lead to collisions and mistakes in judgment. This reinforces the importance of a cautious approach even while responding to emergencies.