Emergency Procedures Flashcards

If your truck's brakes fail while driving downhill, what is the correct emergency procedure?

Answer: Pump the brake pedal, downshift through the gears to use engine braking, use the exhaust brake if fitted, and look for a safe runoff area

In a brake failure, pump the brake pedal rapidly to try to build pressure. Downshift through the gears to maximise engine braking. Engage the exhaust brake/retarder if available. Look for an uphill escape route, runoff area, or soft verge. Use the parking brake progressively as a last resort.

What should a truck driver do first when arriving at the scene of a road traffic collision?

Answer: Ensure personal safety, switch on hazard lights, secure the scene with a warning triangle, and call emergency services

Safety is the first priority. Park safely with hazard lights on, place a warning triangle at least 45 metres behind the scene (100 metres on a motorway), assess the situation, call 999/112, and provide first aid if trained. Never move injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.

At what distance should a warning triangle be placed behind a broken-down truck on a single carriageway?

Answer: At least 45 metres behind the vehicle on the same side of the road

On a single carriageway, the warning triangle should be placed at least 45 metres behind the vehicle on the same side of the road. On a motorway, it should be at least 100 metres behind. The triangle warns approaching traffic to slow down.

If your truck catches fire while driving, what should you do?

Answer: Pull over safely, turn off the engine, evacuate the cab, use a fire extinguisher on a small fire if safe to do so, and call the fire brigade

Stop the vehicle safely, turn off the engine to cut fuel supply, evacuate immediately, and move away from the vehicle. Only attempt to fight a small fire if you have the correct extinguisher and it is safe to do so. Call 999/112 for the fire brigade.

What type of fire extinguisher should be carried in a commercial vehicle?

Answer: A dry powder extinguisher suitable for Class A, B, and C fires (solid materials, liquids, and gases)

Commercial vehicles should carry a dry powder (ABC) extinguisher as it covers the main fire types encountered: solid materials (Class A), flammable liquids like diesel (Class B), and flammable gases (Class C). The minimum size is typically 2 kg.

If a tyre blows out on a truck at speed, what is the correct procedure?

Answer: Hold the steering wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator gradually, avoid braking suddenly, and steer to a safe stopping area

A blowout on a truck can cause violent pulling. Grip the wheel firmly to maintain direction, gently release the accelerator, and do NOT brake harshly as this can cause loss of control. Guide the vehicle to the hard shoulder or safe area using gentle steering inputs.