By Police1 Staff
Responding to motor vehicle collisions is a core duty for highway patrol officers, but it also carries significant risks. Busy highways and interstates pose unique challenges, turning crash scenes into dangerous environments. The combination of distracted drivers, intoxicated vehicle operators, high speeds and poor visibility can make any roadside response a high-risk situation for police and other responders.
Here are 10 essential tips for highway patrol officers working at motor vehicle collisions on any roadway, regardless of the volume and speed of traffic.
- Minimize exposure time: Reduce the time spent in areas exposed to moving traffic. Prioritize quick assessments and action plans.
- Use vehicles as barriers: Position cruisers, fire trucks or other response vehicles to create a physical barrier between yourself and traffic. Use these vehicles to block lanes and create a safer working space whenever possible.
- Wear high-visibility gear: Always wear reflective vests and high-visibility apparel, especially at night or in low-light conditions. This may help approaching drivers see you sooner and avoid the scene.
- Establish traffic control early: Set up traffic cones, flares, or signs to slow down and redirect traffic away from the collision scene. Proper traffic incident management helps keep both responders and drivers safe.
Stay aware of traffic flow: Constantly monitor oncoming traffic and assign someone to be a lookout. Awareness of traffic movement may give you the critical seconds needed to avoid a potential threat.
Curious about Crash Responder Safety Week? Discover the history behind this vital initiative to protect first responders on our roadways in the video below.
- Communicate clearly: Work closely with other responding agencies, such as fire and EMS, to establish clear communication regarding scene safety. Coordinate positioning and activities to reduce exposure for everyone.
- Move with purpose: Always move deliberately at the crash scene. Avoid lingering and make sure each action brings you closer to clearing the scene safely and efficiently. Minimize unnecessary steps in hazardous areas.
- Use flashing lights wisely: Use the emergency lights on your cruiser to increase visibility, but be mindful not to create additional confusion or distraction for oncoming drivers. Consider turning some lights off once traffic is sufficiently slowed or diverted.
- Create safe zones: Identify and establish a warm zone — an area of reduced risk — where officers and responders can work more safely. Non-essential personnel should not be in the hot zone or the warm zone.
- Never assume drivers see you: Distracted, impaired or fatigued drivers may not be aware of the scene ahead. Always assume that drivers may not see you or your vehicle and take steps to stay out of the direct path of moving traffic.
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