At a traffic incident, what should be used to create a barrier between oncoming traffic and EMS personnel?

Using emergency vehicles to create a barrier between oncoming traffic and EMS personnel is considered best practice at traffic incidents. Positioning these vehicles appropriately can effectively shield first responders from oncoming traffic, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. By utilizing larger, more visible emergency vehicles, personnel can create a physical and psychological barrier, encouraging drivers to slow down and navigate safely around the incident scene.

While traffic cones, road signs, and fire hoses may assist in delineating work areas, they do not offer the same level of protection as emergency vehicles. Traffic cones can guide traffic flow but lack substantial presence and protection. Road signs can inform drivers, yet they are often not sufficient to deter reckless driving. Fire hoses, although crucial in firefighting scenarios, do not serve the purpose of creating a traffic barrier.

Thus, the use of emergency vehicles stands out as the most effective means of ensuring the safety of EMS personnel at a traffic incident.