This paper presents traffic control guidelines developed for emergency traffic management. The guidelines are based on the principles for temporary traffic control in work zones, which have been adapted for emergency situations. It is noted that although there are formal guidelines for work zones, such procedures and guidelines have not been formalized for emergency situations. Emergency situations are similar to work zones in that they may violate a driver's expectations and compromise their safety in addition to the safety of crash victims and firefighters, police, and EMS personnel attending the scene. These guidelines have recently been developed for the Calgary Fire Department (CFD). The guidelines include: driving to the scene, arrival at the scene, securing the scene and scene roles and responsibilities. The components of an emergency traffic control zone are similar to a work zone and include the advance warning area, approach area, transition area, activity area, and termination area. However, some of these components have been modified for emergency situations.
Abstract