Officers of the Police Department or such officers as are assigned by the Chief of Police are hereby authorized to direct all traffic by voice, hand or signal in conformance with traffic laws; provided, that if there is a fire or other emergency, or to expedite traffic or to safeguard pedestrians, officers of the Police Department may direct traffic as conditions may require notwithstanding the provisions of the traffic laws. (Code 1981 § 43-90. Code 1995 § 142-38.)