What is the primary purpose of emergency lights and sirens in emergency response?

The primary purpose of emergency lights and sirens in emergency response is to signal the approach of emergency vehicles. This use is critical for ensuring that other road users, pedestrians, and those in the vicinity are aware that an emergency vehicle is en route to a situation that requires urgent attention. The lights and sirens serve to alert the public, allowing them to take appropriate actions, such as moving to the side of the road, which facilitates quicker and safer access for first responders. This prioritization of emergency personnel's swift movement can make a significant difference in outcomes during crises.

While the other choices have some relevance in different contexts, they do not align with the primary role of emergency response signals. Scheduled events and navigation assistance are not typically associated with the core function of emergency lights and sirens, nor do they serve to denote the conclusion of an emergency, which is the focus of option C.