III-E-03 Traffic Incident Management (TIM) 05/28/2019

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Questions and Answers

What distance should be maintained between apparatus directed to take additional 'Fend-Off' positions upstream?

200 to 250 feet

250 to 300 feet

150 to 200 feet (correct)

100 to 150 feet

When should a later arriving apparatus extend or replace the 'Fend-Off' position?

When Fend-Off angles exceed 45° (correct)

When traffic is at a standstill

When all lanes are blocked

When the FD is unavailable

What should the first priority be for a transport unit providing adequate traffic control?

To block all lanes of traffic

To maintain integrity of the ETICA (correct)

To assist in setting up a staging area

To transport patients immediately

What is the recommended method when using apparatus as lateral buffers?

Position them immediately adjacent to the Activity Area after upstream Fend-Off units are in place Signup and view all the answers

Where should a downstream staging area be located for larger traffic incidents?

Against either a median or along a shoulder Signup and view all the answers

How should the first arriving unit manage scene control at intersections?

By prioritizing the protection of involved vehicles from upstream traffic Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if a vertical obstruction is identified near an incident?

Establish Advance Warning Areas far enough upstream Signup and view all the answers

What should be done in situations with horizontal obstructions?

Expand the Buffer Subspace upstream Signup and view all the answers

How should emergency lighting be managed for units in the protected staging area?

Reduce lighting that impairs visibility of personnel or motorists Signup and view all the answers

In inclement weather, what should be done regarding advance warning for motorists?

Lengthen the Advance Warning Area and related zones Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical safety measure when later arriving apparatus are employed as buffer blocks?

They must position downstream of the first unit to take up a lateral blocking position Signup and view all the answers

What should units do if multiple apparatus are required on scene?

Establish the ETICA and designate a Staging Area downstream Signup and view all the answers

Why should additional units be requested when managing an intersection incident?

To support in closing turning lanes and reducing confusion Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered a 'No Standing' zone when setting up the ETICA?

Areas outside the ETICA Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for circling the apparatus from the front when performing a task on the exposed side?

To face upstream traffic and check for motorists Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if establishing an effective ETICA is not feasible?

Shut down roadways completely to civilian traffic Signup and view all the answers

How should later responding units approach the incident when traveling against normal traffic flow?

By traveling as close to the shoulder as possible Signup and view all the answers

What should apparatus drivers do upon arrival to assist in identifying potential hazards?

Turn on ground lights Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Emergency Traffic Incident Control Area (ETICA)?

To impose temporary traffic controls during incidents Signup and view all the answers

What defines the boundaries of the Emergency Traffic Incident Control Area (ETICA)?

The first and last temporary traffic control device or emergency vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV)/Express Lanes?

To manage congestion by restricting access based on additional tolls Signup and view all the answers

Which lane is typically used for emergency stopping between the median and the innermost lane of travel?

Left Shoulder Signup and view all the answers

How are local/general purpose lanes characterized?

They are available for use without restrictions or tolls Signup and view all the answers

What is a median in the context of divided roadways?

The space separating opposing lanes of traffic Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'downstream' refer to in traffic management?

The direction of traffic moving away from the incident Signup and view all the answers

What must motorists do when they enter express lanes?

Exit only at specific, well-identified locations Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of positioning MDFR apparatus at an incident scene?

To serve as a barrier to divert traffic and protect responders Signup and view all the answers

Which area is meant for providing early notification to motorists approaching an emergency scene?

Advance Warning Area Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical reason for not using smaller emergency vehicles for traffic control at incident scenes?

They cannot provide sufficient protection against secondary accidents Signup and view all the answers

How is the length of the transition area calculated?

By estimating the speed of approaching motorists and multiplying by 10 Signup and view all the answers

What should typically be avoided when blocking lanes with MDFR apparatus?

Partial blocking of lanes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Buffer Subspace in the Activity Area?

To provide a safe distance between apparatus and incident area Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be prioritized when determining a Fend-Off position for apparatus?

The safety and effectiveness of traffic diversion Signup and view all the answers

What should units do as they approach an incident scene?

Slow down and assess the situation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of tubular markers on roadways?

To guide and delineate pathways for motorists. Signup and view all the answers

What signifies the end of the emergency scene allowing vehicles to resume normal flow?

Termination Area designation Signup and view all the answers

When responding to an incident, which direction should units investigate if the location is unclear?

3 miles upstream and 3 miles downstream. Signup and view all the answers

What should an apparatus driver do before exiting the vehicle at the incident scene?

Turn the wheel away from the incident Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies can help mitigate risks for emergency responders?

Employing actions that protect themselves, agencies, and the public. Signup and view all the answers

What role do smaller emergency vehicles play in the context of the Emergency Traffic Incident Control Area (ETICA)?

They serve in advance warning and transition areas Signup and view all the answers

What should be communicated to incoming units to clearly identify the incident's geographic location?

Roadway identifier, direction of travel, and cross hatch relationship. Signup and view all the answers

In a Fend-Off position, what angle should the apparatus turn relative to the direction of travel?

45° Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the second unit dispatched to major roadway incidents?

To provide traffic control and ensure safety of personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What is the sequence of areas encountered by drivers during an emergency traffic incident?

Advance Warning, Transition, Buffer, Incident, Termination Signup and view all the answers

What is commonly noted as the first step in establishing the Emergency Traffic Incident Control Area (ETICA)?

Creating the Advance Warning Area Signup and view all the answers

How should units respond when they need to drive over tubular markers?

By reducing speeds to 15 mph or less. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'upstream' refer to in the context of traffic incidents?

Traffic moving toward the incident scene. Signup and view all the answers

What should responders do if they encounter limited U-turn areas on highways?

Request a unit from the opposite direction. Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of establishing an Emergency Traffic Incident Control Area (ETICA)?

To secure the scene and ensure responder safety. Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when locating incidents reported by 911 callers?

Assuming the location based on callers' information. Signup and view all the answers

What components are necessary for communicating roadway features to incoming units?

Roadway features and lane numbering. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for emergency responders to communicate the 'left to right' positioning of an incident?

To help incoming units stage appropriately. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the correct use of cross hatch communication?

It indicates the incident's proximity to known intersection points. Signup and view all the answers

What factors contribute to the difficulty in locating reported roadway incidents?

911 callers often lack precise location knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy should be the priority for the first arriving unit at a traffic incident?

Controlling traffic around the scene Signup and view all the answers

What should the use of emergency vehicle lighting be assessed for after establishing ETICA?

Determining which lights can be reduced Signup and view all the answers

When is it appropriate to move involved vehicles off the roadway?

When all vehicles have minor damage and are drivable Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration when deploying traffic control devices?

Flammable liquid presence may affect device choice Signup and view all the answers

What should responders do to enhance visibility for motorists approaching an incident?

Minimize glare from lighting equipment Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed at which units should run over tubular markers?

15 mph Signup and view all the answers

What must all MDFR members wear while operating on roadways for safety?

Reflective vests compliant with ANSI/ISEA 207 Signup and view all the answers

What should be done before moving any vehicles at an accident scene?

Stop traffic in all affected directions Signup and view all the answers

How should an MDFR member exit from a unit to ensure safety?

Turn around and step down using three points of contact Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial step for clearing the scene after MDFR units have completed on-scene operations?

Turn the scene over to FDOT or a roadway partner Signup and view all the answers

In which situation should emergency vehicle lights be kept at full capacity?

When the ETICA has not been established Signup and view all the answers

How should scene lights be positioned to enhance safety without causing glare?

Perpendicular to approaching traffic Signup and view all the answers

What should be minimized when using scene lighting at an incident scene?

White scene lighting aimed towards drivers Signup and view all the answers

What aspect should be prioritized by drivers of emergency apparatus regarding elevation changes?

Avoiding damage to their units Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Roadway Incident Response Policy

MDFR prioritizes safe, efficient response to roadway incidents to restore traffic flow in Miami-Dade.
Emergency Traffic Incident Control Area (ETICA) is established upstream and downstream of an incident by responding units.
ETICA begins at the first traffic control device or emergency vehicle with lights, extending to the last control point.

Traffic Lane Definitions

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV)/Express Lanes: Restricted lanes for vehicles that pay tolls or meet specific qualifications.
Local/General Purpose Lanes: Open lanes for all motorists without tolls.
Left & Right Shoulders: Emergency stopping lanes adjacent to travel lanes; the left shoulder is adjacent to the median, while the right is next to the swale.
Median: Area separating opposing traffic lanes, can be landscaped, open, or constructed with barriers.

Incident Location Procedures

Locating incidents can be challenging; delays may occur due to unclear caller locations.
Employ "3 Up & 3 Down" strategy: Search for incidents 3 miles upstream and downstream from reported location.
Use FDOT Responder Camera Network and Traffic Operations Center to assist in incident location.

Communication of Incident Location

Clearly communicate incident details using geographic identifiers:
- Roadway Identifier: Name of the road where the incident occurred.
- Direction of Travel: Compass direction of the incident.
- Cross Hatch Relationships: Describes the incident’s position relative to intersections, including "before," "beyond," "between," "at," or "on."

On-Scene Operations and Safety

Establish ETICA to secure the scene before assisting patients; traffic control is essential to protect responders.
Two units are dispatched for major roadway incidents; a second unit may be canceled only if deemed unnecessary by the Officer in Charge (OIC).
Apparatus positioning should minimize risks of secondary accidents and ensure visibility for approaching motorists.

Establishing ETICA Components

Advance Warning Area: Alerts motorists upstream of an active emergency.
Transition Area: Redirects traffic around the incident through apparatus placement and devices.
Buffer Subspace: A safety area between emergency apparatus and the incident scene.
Incident Subspace: Area where emergency response operations occur.
Termination Area: Zone where traffic can return to normal flow.

Apparatus Positioning

Visibility and size of MDFR apparatus provide protection and early warning to motorists.
Positioning techniques such as "Fend-Off" require careful planning to block traffic effectively without creating confusion.

Visibility and Environmental Concerns

Tailor response strategy based on visibility conditions, e.g., adjust Advance Warning and Transition Areas when near vertical or horizontal obstructions.
Vertical obstructions like overpasses necessitate advance MDFR positioning at the top to manage traffic effectively.
Weather conditions may require extending warning areas due to limited visibility and increased braking distances.

Additional Considerations

Keep emergency lighting usage in check to avoid impairing visibility for responding personnel and motorists.
Intersections pose additional hazards; prioritize response strategies and request additional support for traffic management.### Emergency Vehicle Lighting
Emergency vehicle warning lights ensure the safety of MDFR members and accident victims during events.
Extreme caution is necessary due to potential blinding effects on road users, particularly in low light.
Once ETICA is established, Incident Commanders assess the need to reduce apparatus emergency lights.

Scene Lighting

Strategic use of white scene lights enhances operational safety by illuminating the area and increasing the visibility of responders to motorists.
Scene lighting should be aimed away from oncoming traffic to prevent glare that can hinder safe navigation.
Direct lighting use should minimize glare while enhancing overall safety.

Traffic Control Devices

Temporary traffic control devices are essential for warning road users of emergency responders at accidents.
Devices such as cones, signs, and flares should be deployed promptly, starting closest to the incident and moving upstream.
Selection of traffic control devices should consider flammable substances and device visibility.

First Arriving Unit Priorities

The Officer in Charge (OIC) must communicate key information about the incident, including location, accident layout, and involved vehicles.
Controlling traffic is the top priority for the first arriving unit, surpassing other responsibilities such as patient care.
Employ traffic control devices and establish ETICA upon arrival to ensure scene safety.

Moving Involved Vehicles

If vehicles have minor damage and are drivable, they should be relocated from traffic lanes following Florida State Statute 316.061.
Movement should not expand the width of the ETICA; all affected traffic must be halted before relocating vehicles.
After relocating, the OIC must inform the FAO of the new vehicle positions.

Clearing the Scene

MDFR units should strive to quickly resolve hazards and treat victims to expedite transport when necessary.
Post-operation, units should clear the scene swiftly and ensure readiness to take over traffic control responsibilities before handing over to roadway authorities.
Release MDFR apparatus from the ETICA starting from the downstream end.

Safety Standards and Suggested Practices

Caution should be exercised when traversing tubular markers while driving under 15 mph.
All members must adopt a defensive posture, treating all oncoming vehicles as potential threats.
Reflective safety vests are mandatory for all MDFR members operating near incidents on roadways.
Safety goggles are recommended as part of personal protective equipment (PPE) for eye protection against debris.

Exiting the Vehicle Safely

Members must ensure traffic is stopped or diverted before exiting an MDFR unit to reduce the risk of being struck.
Always exit using the three points of contact method, turning around to minimize falling risks into traffic lanes.
Be vigilant for road debris when entering or exiting apparatus to prevent tripping hazards.

Establishing ETICA

If a proper ETICA cannot be established, all civilian vehicular traffic should be completely halted.
Maintain awareness of impatient drivers attempting to navigate around emergency scenes.
Late-arriving units traveling against traffic must confirm with the Incident Commander about secure entry to the incident scene.

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Description

This quiz covers the policies set by MDFR for safe responses to roadway incidents. It includes definitions and procedures related to emergency traffic incident control, ensuring efficient assistance and traffic flow restoration in Miami-Dade. Test your knowledge on the key concepts and terminologies.