40 emergency responders struck & killed in 2020, 44 emergency responders struck & killed in 2019, thousands of emergency responders struck & injured.
We have fought for tougher Move Over Laws to help create a safer work scene, but are we as emergency responders doing our part to maintain scene safety or are we taking shortcuts to safety?
Move Over laws are only part of the equation. As emergency responders we need to get trained in roadway safety and traffic incident management and stop taking shortcuts to safety which may lead to injuries and death.
We, as emergency responders need to SLOW DOWN/MOVE OVER not only when passing by incident scenes but also when we are working at incidents.
We, as emergency responders need to SLOW DOWN/MOVE OVER not only when passing by incident scenes but also when we are working at incidents.
Don’t be like these guys…. Slow down when working at incident scenes, take the time to make the scene safer by putting out early warning devices (signs, cones, flares), wearing hi-vis safety apparel and safety PPE (helmet, gloves, etc. ) and moving away from the side of the road or from traffic when possible and place a blocking vehicle between you and traffic when possible. Use the appropriate amount of lighting so as not to blind drivers moving past the incident scene.
Plan for your roadway incident response, get trained, practice what you learned, use what you learned and keep alert and have an escape route.
Stop taking unnecessary chances.. Wear your hi-vis when working on or near the roadway whether the roadway is shut down or not. Vehicles and equipment are moving around incident scenes and responders are not only get struck by passing motorist but also their fellow responders. (It’s an OSHA and MUTCD Requirements)
Bunker gear, dark clothing with a reflective stripe are NOT hi-viz and do not meet the OSHA, ANSI or MUTCD standards… So make the RIGHT choice and dress for safety. 🦺
If you are the chief, safety officer, company owner, scene commander or incident commander set the example by wearing your hi-vis and working safe, keeping alert. Have a your team trained to work smart, work safe and stay smart.
Upcoming ALDOT TIMS Training Classes
Want to schedule a TIMS Class….
Ken Colvert with ALDOT
colvertk@dot.state.al.us
(205) 369-7267
Brandon Jones – TIMS Program Manager Alabama Fire College bjones@alabamafirecollege.org
Or feel free to contact our very own Billy Green, he is one of the instructors with the Alabama Fire College and he can also coordinate with Ken Colvert of ALDOT.
Alabama Towing and Recovery Association 