Guiding Vehicles

Scope

This Operational Guideline references the considerations for members responsible for providing guidance to NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) vehicles during RFS activities.

Fundamental Protocols underpin the actions of all RFS members and must be adhered to at all times. They outline the Principles of being an RFS member and provide guidance on conduct to support the safety and wellbeing of members.

Guiding Principles

• When manoeuvring RFS appliances and vehicles, drivers must use another member as a guide to assist unless it is not practical to do so. If no guide is available, the driver is to dismount and physically check the proposed path and around the vehicle prior to manoeuvring.
• The driver must only take directions from the nominated guide.
• Directions may be given from the front or rear of the vehicle.
• The guide always faces the driver.
• If the guide is to the rear of the vehicle, the driver uses the mirrors.
• The guide must be in the driver’s field of vision at all times whilst the vehicle is in motion.
• If the guide is not in view OR the driver is unsure of a signal, the driver must STOP.
• The driver should drive at a slow constant speed.
• The driver should turn the steering wheel at a slow, constant speed.
• This OPG should be read in conjunction with RFS OPG - Safe Driving.

Special Considerations

Related Information

• RFS OPG - Safe Driving