(a) It shall be the duty of the Police Department to enforce the street traffic regulations of this City and the State vehicle laws and regulations applicable to street traffic in this City, to make arrests for traffic violations, to investigate accidents, and to cooperate with other officers of the City in the administration of the traffic laws and regulations. Also in developing ways and means to improve traffic conditions, and to make out those duties specifically imposed upon said department by this chapter and any other traffic ordinances of this City.

(b) Officers of the Police Department or such officers thereof as are assigned by the Chief of Police, are authorized to direct all traffic by voice, hand, or signal in conformance with traffic laws, regulations, and ordinances; provided that in the event of a fire or other emergency, or to expedite traffic or safeguard pedestrians, officers of the Police Department may direct traffic as conditions may require notwithstanding the provisions of the traffic laws, regulations, and ordinances.

(c) Officers of the Fire Department, when at the scene of a fire, may direct or assist the Police in directing traffic thereat or in the immediate vicinity.