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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 ===

{| class="wikitable"
! 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
|}