What must vehicles do regarding response speeds as outlined in SOP202?

The correct answer focuses on the importance of balancing response speed with safety considerations. When responding to an emergency, it's crucial for vehicles to proceed with caution and adhere to speed limits unless the situation dictates otherwise. This approach allows responders to navigate safely through potentially hazardous environments, minimizing risks to themselves, other motorists, and pedestrians.

By responding with caution, emergency vehicles can better assess road conditions, traffic patterns, and any obstacles that may arise during their response. This practice aligns with best safety protocols which emphasize that while urgency is essential in emergencies, safety must always be a priority to prevent accidents and ensure effective response to the incident at hand.

Other options do not reflect this balance effectively. For example, responding at maximum speed without regard for conditions could lead to increased danger, while strictly adhering to posted speed limits in situations requiring urgency might delay critical assistance. Thus, the correct response emphasizes cautiousness and situational awareness while maintaining compliance with traffic regulations.