Harrisburg, PA — The National Volunteer Fire Council is sharing five key best practices to help keep first responders safe when responding to incidents on or near roadways.
In a recently released 46-second video, NVFC says that around 50 responders are struck and killed at the scene of roadway incidents each year.
The best practices spell out the acronym “SAVE IT”:
Secure your helmet: Use the chin strap to maintain its place on top of the head.
Arrange advance warning: This alerts drivers of changes in traffic patterns.
Vest on: This practice should occur every time a first responder steps out of an emergency vehicle.
Establish a TIMA with blocking: Ensure a traffic incident management area is in place at the scene, which includes an angle-blocking vehicle.
Implement TIM Training: First responders can earn the National Traffic Incident Management Training Certificate to build fundamental roadway safety skills.
NVFC partnered with the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association on the video.
