TRS235 – October 2, 2017
1. Describe the best practice for backing first responder apparatus, including the basic hand signals
involved.
•Use of a buddy backing system is usually the most important precaution for emergency responders
•Communication signals must be clear and consistent, so each member knows the meaning.
•Rear view mirror should be a flat mirror
•Side view mirrors should be convex mirrors
•Do not cover mirrors with any stick-on devices, backing mirrors should be separate accessories.
•Since images in the mirror are reversed, confusion may occur, buddy backing system allows for better
handling of the vehicle.
•Basic non-verbal hand communication directions should be used in backing the vehicle in the buddy
backing system.
•Driver-Spotter team needs signals that indicate
•straight backing
•left and right backing
•stop or hold signal
2. Explain the limited steering efforts used for evasive actions by the driver of a vehicle or apparatus.
•Emergency responders should use limited steering efforts to steer the vehicle away from an imminent
possible crash
•Steering action can include one lane avoidance or partial lane or even a multiple lane adjustment
•Under 35 mph evasive technique different than higher speeds
•180-degree steering input will move front of vehicle at least 12 feet to the side of the turn
•Then a 360-degree steering effort will move the rear of the vehicle into the avoidance lane which then
needs another 180-degree steering adjustment to straighten vehicle in the new lane of travel.
•Steering evasive action over 35 mph requires less turning effort on the driver’s part
•A 90-degree steering input will move the vehicle at least 12 feet
