Figure 5-14.—Winching with a like-vehicle.
To winch a mired truck, use a truck with a winch of
equal or greater capacity to perform the recovery. Often,
the winching or recovery vehicle must be anchored by
more than its own weight. Place wheel blocks, chocks,
or natural material in front of the front wheels of the
recovery vehicle. (See fig. 5-14.) For more information
on vehicle recovery, refer to Vehicle Recovery
Operations, FM 22-20.
INTERNATIONAL SIGNALS AND
ROAD SIGNS
The international system used for traffic control
devices emphasizes pictures and symbols, rather than
written messages. Symbols have several advantages
over word messages, such as the following: (1) they
provide almost instant communication with the driver,
because they can be understood at a glance without
having to be read; and (2) they overcome language
barriers which is important because of the growth of
international travel. Familiarity with the symbolic signs
can help Americans traveling abroad as well as
foreigners visiting the United States. As the new signs
are introduced, companion word messages will also be
used until the public becomes accustomed to the new
system. Figure 5-15 shows several traffic signs and
markings that are used on U.S. roadways.
Additional international signals and road signs are
illustrated in appendix II. The color and shape of these
signs are important.
COLORS
Red indicates a stop or a prohibition. Green shows
movement permitted or gives directional guidance. Blue
is for signs leading to motorist services. Yellow indicates
a general warning. Black on white indicates regulatory
signs, such as those for speed limits. Orange conveys
construction and maintenance warnings. Brown is for
public recreation and scenic guidance.
SHAPES
Diamond-shaped signs signify a warning.
Rectangular signs with the longer dimension vertical
contain a traffic regulation. Rectangular signs with the
longer dimension horizontal contain guidance
information. An octagon means stop; an inverted
triangle means yield. A pennant means no passing; a
pentagon shows the presence of a school. A circle warns
of a railroad crossing.
PAVEMENT MARKINGS
Road markings on highways are yellow and white;
however, each has a different meaning. White lines
separate lanes of traffic going in the same direction.
Yellow markings separate lanes of traffic traveling in
different directions.
Solid yellow lines indicate there should be no
passing from either direction. Broken yellow lines
indicate that you can pass with caution. Remember: You
are traveling on a highway with traffic going in both
directions.
Solid white lines indicate there should be no lane
changing. They are used at stoplights, turning lanes, and
intersections on highways. Broken white lines indicate
that cautious lane changes may be made.
5-12
