Randall Resch: "Survival Hope in 700-Words"

[rreschran]

Randall Resch, American Towman, “My Survival Hope in 700-Words”

 

Dear Tow Operators … Merry Christmas ! !

 

No matter where you are and where you work, if you’re called to serve holiday schedules, be aware that intoxicated drivers are everywhere on the roadways of the world 24/7. Three-days of “Holiday Cheer” are invading our work spaces. I dedicate this safety message to all first responders with focus especially to the tow and recovery industry.

 

Our family knows the pain and devastation having had a family member killed in the midst of a Christmas holiday past. Knowing that the bulk of Christmas and New Year celebrations started today, I’m inspired to share this important information that dates back to 1928, where, as many as 24x tow operators were killed working Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, all in the line of duty (for many reasons).

Christmas Eve December 24^th = 8 towers killed, 4 on the highway

Christmas Day December 25^th = 6 towers killed, all 6 on the highway

 

New Year’s Eve, December 31^st = 3 towers killed, 1 in South Africa, 1 on the highway

New Year’s Day, January 01^st = 7 towers killed, 5 on the highway

 

For cities experiencing snow and cold extremes, every action you take should be well-thought-of; to include your individual exposure to the elements. When cold, fog and blizzard-like conditions create additional dangers, consider if your on-scene scenario requires flares or cones to help define your presence? But, don’t let flares, cones, vests, emergency lights, cops on-scene or safety apps lure you into a false sense of security. One of the most repeated excuses from drivers involved in pedestrian strikes says. “I didn’t see em’.”

 

Especially true to community’s experiencing “summer like weather”, a higher number of intoxicated motorists will pass through the areas you’re working. With no snow and fog present to slow drivers down, highway speeds are likely faster and increasingly more reckless knowing little traffic is there to slow them down. 

 

There’s nothing more important than towers keeping their wits about them 110-percent of the time. When you’re working recoveries or simple load and go operations, always ensure that you work away from approaching traffic. Remember, the moment you go boots-to-the-ground, there’s NO magic solution or force field to help keep you protected.

 

It’s likely that law enforcement will be too busy and you can expect no timely response to your safety needs. Where you deem shoulder work too dangerous to complete that total four-point tie-down, consider using a modified tie-down and move to an area where you can complete tie-down. If you’re called to change flat tires, don’t put yourself in harm’s way, but apply the concept of, “Tow First.” Be smart about your safety decisions.

 

A Slow-Down Move-Over presence demands you activate your over-head emergency lights to provide critical “Advanced Emergency Warning” to approaching motorists. Be smart about your work by remaining away from the traffic-side when working highway shoulders and medians. Stay out of active lanes.

 

For non-highway work, always be aware of your surroundings when conducting PPI’s and repos. Don’t provoke those “angered” over having their vehicle’s towed while using the art on communication and negotiation. Don’t engage First Amendment Auditors by leaving your extended ego at the shop. And, remember, “A calm head prevails!”

 

If you’re NOT a tow operator or other first responder and you’re reading this, all responders and tow operators implore you to be smart and responsible to NOT drink, drive and be distracted this holiday season. Please don’t drive distracted and remain ever diligent. Slow-Down and Move-Over as you approach emergency lights and responder activity.

 

And … if you know a responder suffering from the rigors of work and life, reach-out to them, smile and give them a hug to show you care.

 

Christine and I send to you our prayers for your continued safety and well-being. Work safe and always be aware. This is our heartfelt prayer that you, and all responders, return home to your families. To you, we wish you Merry Christmas … Happy New Year.      R&C

[SURRYTOWER]

Thanks for the reminders AND the holiday wishes, and a Merry Christmas and a Happy and prosperous New Year to You and all on TowForce.

 

John