AS THE Christmas holiday period comes to a close, Southern Downs motorists are being urged to stay alert on the roads and clear the way for emergency vehicles when needed.

Acting Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner Mark Roche said it was a busy time of year for crews and people could help ensure crews arrive at emergencies as fast as possible.

"In an emergency, every second counts and can quickly add up to minutes if motorists and motorbike riders don't pay attention to sirens and flashing lights," Mr Roche said.

"If motorists hear or see a fire appliance with lights and sirens on, slow down and merge to the left if it is safe to do so. This will give responding firefighters a clear passage to travel down the middle of the road.

"If you are at an intersection with a green light, you should still stop and give way to a fire appliance. By doing this and assisting us, you could potentially save a life."

Mr Roche said if there was one fire truck turning out to an incident with lights and sirens on, it was likely another one was following closely behind.

"Motorists should ensure they double check their mirrors once the first vehicle has passed by and wind down their window to listen if other sirens are close by," he said.

Mr Roche also asked motorists to be patient and allow firefighters space when they were reversing, manoeuvring or parking a in confined spaces.

"Ensure you watch for signals from the driver or the appliance carefully and permit them to move in front of you, if they need to turn," he said. "Do not try to drive in front of the appliance while it's reversing, as this type of driving behaviour could lead to a collision or serious accident.

"Your patience is vital - I ask all motorists and riders to be attentive around emergency vehicles when travelling on the road or in a car park, at all times, but especially over the holiday break."

For more information on staying safe these holidays visit http://www.fire.qld.gov.au.