SOG 2-07 BACKING OF APPARATUS
A. Scope:
This operational guideline shall be utilized by all drivers when backing up emergency vehicles.
B. Guidelines:
1. The driver of any Fire Department vehicle shall be directly responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle.
2. An officer or acting officer shall also assume responsibility for the actions of the driver.
3. When backing an emergency vehicle, a minimum of one spotter shall be at the rear of the vehicle.
4. A spotter(s) is responsible for guiding the Driver and ensuring that any potential hazards are avoided.
5. A spotter shall position themselves to have an unobstructed view and be in visual and voice/radio contact with the apparatus driver.
6. Spotters shall not ride the tailboard while backing apparatus.
7. If the Driver loses visual contact with the spotter(s), the Driver shall stop the apparatus immediately.
8. Vehicle mounted cameras or other devices are not a substitute for a spotter.
9. In situations where assistance is not available and the apparatus must be immediately moved, the Driver shall first walk completely around the apparatus before backing to ensure no obstructions will interfere with vehicle operation.
10. Authorized exception to this policy:
a. Department members are exempt from this policy while personnel in the patient compartment of an ambulance are actively performing emergency medical care.
b. When arriving at the emergency room and compliance with the policy would jeopardize patient care.
c. The driver shall take extraordinary care while backing the vehicle in these situations.
11. Apparatus returning to the station
a. Driver shall pull apparatus on to the apron to allow firefighters to exit the vehicle safely.
b. Firefighters shall retrieve stop signs from inside station and enter the street in coordination with traffic flow.
c. Upon direction from the officer, the Driver shall pull apparatus into the street in preparation for backing apparatus in to the station.
d. Driver shall keep emergency lights in the off position while backing in the station.