According to the traffic code, an operator may not follow closer than how many feet from a fire apparatus responding to a fire alarm?

The correct answer is 500 feet. This distance is established to ensure the safety of both the fire apparatus and the general public. Fire apparatus responding to an emergency typically travels at higher speeds and may need to maneuver quickly to respond effectively. By maintaining a distance of at least 500 feet, operators reduce the risk of accidents and allow emergency responders the room they need to operate safely and efficiently.

Maintaining this distance also helps prevent interference with the vehicle's access to the scene, as other emergency vehicles may be en route. In situations where visibility is limited or the road is narrow, keeping this distance becomes even more crucial to ensure that all emergency vehicles can respond without hindrance. Such regulations are established in traffic safety codes to prioritize the safe and effective operation of emergency services while minimizing potential hazards to other road users.