What should be avoided when backing a fire apparatus?

When backing a fire apparatus, it is crucial to avoid situations where clear visibility is impaired. When visibility is obstructed, the operator cannot assess the surrounding environment effectively, which increases the risk of accidents or collisions with people, vehicles, or obstacles that may not be immediately apparent.

Backing without clear visibility compromises safety and can lead to significant hazards. Fire apparatuses are large vehicles that can have blind spots, making it essential for the operator to have an unobstructed view of the area behind them. Therefore, taking the necessary precautions to ensure visibility is vital for safe operations. Using tools like spotters or mirrors, or backing slowly when no obstacles are present, are all practices that enhance safety while backing up such a large and potentially dangerous vehicle.