Nationally, the number of injuries and fatalities among emergency responders who are responding to roadside incidents is increasing at a growing rate.
Here are some tactical considerations for staying safe during roadside incidents:
Any time traffic flow is affected by the incident, contact the jurisdictional law enforcement agency for assistance.
Conduct all operations as far from traffic lanes as possible to provide for crew and public safety.
Park units on the same side of the roadway when ever possible to avoid traffic congestion.
Personnel do not exit the fire apparatus until instructed to do so by the module leader.
Exit the fire apparatus away from the roadway or where hazard exposure is minimized.
Exit the fire apparatus with full personal protective equipment.
Post a lookout to watch for and control oncoming traffic.
Utilize forward and rear spotters when visibility is impaired or road conditions warrant.
Utilize and place road flares or other traffic warning signs when ever possible.
If equipment needs to be removed from the traffic side of the apparatus, one person will retrieve the equipment and a lookout will watch for oncoming traffic.
Engine operators will operate pumps from the non-traffic side or from the cab of the apparatus when possible. Keep all hose, fire tools, and equipment out of traffic lanes when possible.
During night operations utilize reflective clothing, vests and other safety equipment as necessary.
All emergency responses on roadways will be concluded as quickly as possible to reduce personnel exposure.
Cancel or demob unnecessary apparatus as soon as possible.
For more safety tips from the Federal Fire and Aviation Safety Team, visit its Six Minutes for Safety section at www.nifc.gov
