Traffic Control Training 

Training Objectives

- Protect personal safety and the safety of the scene.

- Use proper equipment and techniques to remain visible and effective.

- Apply clear, decisive, and courteous communication with drivers and the public.

- Maintain situational awareness and support team safety through communication.

Required Equipment

- Reflective vest (high visibility with reflective markings)

- Flags (for signaling drivers)

- Flashlight or Headlamp (especially for dawn, dusk, or night operations)

- Cones and/or flares (to establish traffic patterns)

- Whistle or radio (optional, as assigned)

Personal Safety

- Always be visible: stand out, wear bright reflective gear, avoid shaded/hidden positions.

- Never turn your back on oncoming traffic until vehicles are completely stopped.

- Choose a position with a safety escape path.

- Stand near the shoulder, not in the driving lane.

- Stay alert for impaired drivers, speeding vehicles, or unexpected movements.

- Take breaks away from moving traffic.

Traffic Cones & Flares

- Place 20–25 feet apart in straight lines.

- Angle them to funnel traffic smoothly into new lanes.

- Place on only one side of an obstruction if possible.

- Remember: cones and flares are not barriers—drivers may ignore or bypass them.

- Cones: long duration, low maintenance, limited visibility at long distances.

- Flares: highly visible, especially at night, but burn out and require monitoring.

Communication & Team Safety

- Maintain eye contact with the driver before signaling.

- Use clear, deliberate signals (hands, flags, or wands).

- Do not wave the flag unless giving a specific signal.

- Share changes in traffic flow or hazards with team members immediately.

- Follow the chain of command—report changes or issues promptly.

Professional Conduct

- Be assertive: You are in charge of traffic direction.

- Be decisive: Clear instructions prevent confusion.

- Be courteous: Remain calm and polite even if drivers are frustrated.

- Always represent CERT and CRESA professionally.

CERT Traffic Control Checklist

Before Operations

- [ ] Don safety gear (reflective vest, gloves, flashlight/headlamp if needed).

- [ ] Inspect and stage cones/traffic directional devices.

- [ ] Identify escape route and safe standing location.

- [ ] Review traffic plan and confirm chain of command.

- [ ] Ensure communication equipment (radio/whistle) is working.

DURING OPERATIONS

- [ ] Maintain visibility and face oncoming traffic.

- [ ] Establish eye contact with drivers before signaling.

- [ ] Use clear, deliberate hand/flag/wand signals.

- [ ] Keep drivers informed, answer questions briefly without halting flow.

- [ ] Remain alert for impaired/out-of-control drivers.

- [ ] Monitor co-responders and communicate hazards immediately.

- [ ] Take scheduled breaks away from traffic.

Traffic Management Do’s

✔ Always be seen (vest, flashlight, stand alone).

✔ Stand on the shoulder, facing traffic, with escape path.

✔ Use cones/flares to create smooth traffic flow.

✔ Stay alert and communicate with team.

✔ Treat motorists courteously.

Traffic Management Don’ts

✘ Don’t stand in a travel lane or group.

✘ Don’t assume traffic will stop or that drivers see you.

✘ Don’t wave flag randomly (only use for signaling).

✘ Don’t get distracted with conversations.

✘ Don’t give directions against traffic signals.

✘ Don’t leave your post until relieved.