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Elevating Safety in Emergency Mobile Services (EMS): 5 Best Practices for Diesel Technicians 

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Fleet Services by Cox Automotive EMS

At Fleet Services by Cox Automotive, we are driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and safety. Our commitment to innovation and client-focused service has positioned us as leaders in Emergency Mobile Services (EMS). Here are five essential best practices designed to keep our technicians safe while delivering cutting-edge roadside assistance. 

1. Maximize Visibility: Your First Line of Defense 

Visibility is paramount when working roadside. Making your presence unmistakably clear can significantly reduce risks. Here’s how: 

  • Deploy Safety Triangles & Cones: Strategically place these around your service area to alert oncoming traffic. 
  • Wear Hi-Vis Clothing: Always don bright, reflective gear to stand out. 
  • Activate Strobe Lights: Use your service truck’s strobe lights to enhance visibility and signal caution. 

Key Actions: 

  • Ensure all safety equipment is in good condition and readily accessible. 
  • Regularly update your safety protocols to incorporate new visibility tools and techniques. 

2. Prioritize Swift and Safe Repairs 

The objective during roadside interventions is to restore vehicle mobility swiftly while maintaining high safety standards. 

  • Temporary Fixes: Implement short-term solutions that facilitate safe relocation, such as quick air leak repairs. 
  • Towing Decisions: Opt for towing if immediate repairs pose any risk, ensuring utmost safety. 

Strategic Approach: 

  • Assess the situation quickly but thoroughly to determine the most effective temporary fix. 
  • Communicate with dispatch to arrange towing if necessary, ensuring minimal downtime for the client. 

3. Maintain Vigilance: Own the Scene 

Mastering roadside work requires constant vigilance. Balancing repair tasks with monitoring your surroundings is essential. 

  • Constant Monitoring: Keep an eye on traffic and potential hazards at all times. 
  • Ensure Driver Safety: Make sure the driver stays in a secure zone away from moving vehicles, reducing their exposure to traffic. 

Vigilance Essentials: 

  • Develop a routine to scan your environment regularly while working. 
  • Engage the driver in safety protocols, ensuring they understand the importance of staying in a safe area. 

4. Strategic Preplanning and Positioning 

Effective preplanning begins before reaching the roadside scene. Positioning your service truck strategically enhances safety. 

  • Consult the Driver: Gather detailed information about the breakdown before arriving. 
  • Position Your Truck Wisely: Place your service truck to create a protective barrier, typically ahead of the disabled vehicle, to minimize exposure to oncoming traffic. 

Preparatory Steps: 

  • Use pre-service calls to get a comprehensive understanding of the issue. 
  • Plan the best approach route and positioning based on the information provided by the driver. 

5. Manage Summer Heat: Stay Hydrated and Cool 

Higher temperatures in summer require proactive hydration and heat management strategies. 

  • Hydration Strategy: Drink water regularly throughout the day to maintain optimal performance. 
  • Cooling Breaks: Take regular breaks to cool down in your truck’s air conditioning, preventing heat-related issues. 

Heat Management Tactics: 

  • Carry sufficient water supplies and make hydration part of your daily routine. 
  • Recognize signs of heat exhaustion and take immediate action to cool down when needed. 

Conclusion 

In the realm of Emergency Mobile Services, safety transcends all other priorities. At Fleet Services by Cox Automotive, these best practices reflect our commitment to protecting our technicians while delivering exceptional service. By maximizing visibility, prioritizing swift yet safe repairs, maintaining vigilance, strategic preplanning, and managing heat effectively, we ensure our team operates in the safest environment possible. 

Our ethos is defined by collaboration, innovation, and a client-obsessed approach. These values drive us to continuously enhance our safety protocols and service delivery. Join us in prioritizing safety and excellence in every roadside intervention.