Communication and Hand Signals in Recovery

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Communication and Hand Signals in Recovery

Before any tension is applied to a recovery line, the driver and the Marshall (Spotter) must agree on the following signals. Only one person should give signals to the driver to prevent confusion.

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1. Standard Hand Signals

These signals should be performed with exaggerated movements, ideally using high-visibility gloves or a brightly colored cloth.

• STOP (Immediate): Both arms raised above the head in an 'X' or both fists clenched and held high. This is the most important signal and means "Cease all movement immediately."
• Move Forward / Winch In: Arms held out in front with palms facing the Marshall, moving in a "come hither" motion toward the chest.
• Move Backward / Winch Out: Arms held out in front with palms facing the driver, pushing away from the chest.
• Directional Steering (Left/Right): Point clearly in the direction the front of the wheels should turn. For overlanders, "Left" and "Right" always refer to the driver's perspective.
• Slow/Incremental Movement: Hold one hand flat and use the other hand to "tap" the palm. This indicates the driver should move in "bumps" or very small increments.
• Hold Position: A single clenched fist held steady. This means "Hold the vehicle on the brake/gears, do not move, but do not shut down."

2. Radio Communication Protocol

If using UHF/VHF radios, follow the "Think, Key, Speak" rule to avoid "clipping" the start of your message.

• Identify Yourself: "Stuck Vehicle, this is Recovery Lead, do you copy?"
• State Intent: "I am going to take up the slack. Signal when you are ready."
• The Count: Use a "3, 2, 1, PULL" or "3, 2, 1, WINCH" countdown so the driver can synchronize their throttle input.
• Clear the Channel: Ensure no one else is talking during the tension phase. If you hear "BREAK, BREAK, BREAK," it means an emergency has occurred—stop everything.

3. The Marshall's Position

The Marshall should never stand directly in front of or behind the vehicle.

• The Offset View: Stand at a 45-degree angle to the front of the vehicle, well outside the "Kill Zone" of the winch cable or snatch strap.
• Line of Sight: If the Marshall cannot see the driver’s eyes in the wing mirror or through the windshield, the driver cannot see the Marshall’s signals.
• The "Kill Switch": The Marshall should have their hand near their own radio or a whistle. If they see a shackle twisting or a bystander wandering into the zone, they must signal an immediate STOP.

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Communication Checklist

Protocol	Requirement	Reason
Single Leader	Only one Marshall	Prevents conflicting steering commands
Mirror Check	Driver must see Marshall	Ensures signals are received
Defined STOP	Closed fists or 'X'	Universal symbol for danger/cease
Radio Check	Confirm signal before pull	Prevents "dead air" during critical moves