How should you ensure your safety while operating at a roadway incident?

To ensure safety while operating at a roadway incident, maintaining a safe distance from ongoing traffic is critical. This approach minimizes the risk of injury from passing vehicles and reduces the chances of becoming a victim in the hazardous environment of an accident scene. Emergency responders are often exposed to unpredictable traffic patterns, and creating space between themselves and the roadway provides an essential buffer zone.

The importance of high visibility gear cannot be overstated, as it significantly increases the likelihood that drivers will see first responders in low-light conditions or in high-stress situations. However, wearing such gear does not negate the need to keep a safe distance from traffic. In addition to wearing appropriate safety equipment, standing behind emergency vehicles is also a good practice, but it should not replace the fundamental principle of maintaining a safe distance from active traffic lanes.

Therefore, ensuring your safety by keeping a safe distance from traffic is essential for protecting yourself and your teammates at any roadway incident.