Where should emergency vehicles functioning as blocking vehicles be parked?

Emergency vehicles functioning as blocking vehicles should be positioned in the buffer. The buffer serves as a safety zone between the emergency responders and oncoming traffic, allowing for protection of both the personnel on the scene and the vehicles involved in the incident. This space is critical because it reduces the risk of secondary accidents by keeping traffic at a safe distance from the incident and its responders.

Positioning the blocking vehicles in the buffer is essential for effective Traffic Incident Management (TIM) because it creates a physical barrier that can help control traffic flow and minimize the exposure of responders to potential hazards. This placement is vital in facilitating quick access to the incident scene while also managing the scene safely and effectively.

In contrast, parking in the traffic lane could lead to additional hazards and impede the flow of traffic, leading to further accidents. A staging area is designated for deploying resources and not for blocking vehicles, while positioning at the edge of the roadway does not provide the necessary protection from traffic. Therefore, using the buffer correctly is a fundamental practice in ensuring the safety of all involved in an emergency situation.