2005 Ford Windstar van - emergency brake light problem

When I crank the car and release the emergency brake the light stays on- however if I put the car in park-cut the car off and restart it then it goes off. It may not do it again for 3 or 4 cranks. What’s up??

You have read your owner’s manual? I’m sure it points out that what you are seeing is not just an “emergency” brake light. It also lights up if you are low on brake fluid, which could be a serious issue.