What should you ensure about your escape route while flagging?

• A. Always have an escape route.
• B. Never plan for an escape route.
• C. Stay behind barriers to avoid seeing traffic.
• D. Rely on others to signal your exit.

Answer: (A)

Having a planned escape route is essential for flagging safety because conditions around a work zone can change in seconds. If a hazard appears, a vehicle or equipment problem arises, or traffic behaves unpredictably, you need to move quickly to a safe area without stepping back into active lanes. Identify a clear, unobstructed path to a safe location before you start work—such as the shoulder, behind a barrier, or another designated safe zone—so you can reach it directly from your position. Keep that route free of equipment and debris and make sure you can access it without crossing traffic. Relying on barriers or waiting for others to signal when to exit leaves you exposed to danger and can slow your withdrawal. The core practice is to always know and be able to use your escape route immediately.