What should you do before backing up the ambulance?

The best practice before backing up an ambulance involves taking comprehensive visual checks to ensure safety. This includes not only checking mirrors but also looking over your shoulder for blind spots.

Using your horn might alert others to your presence, but it does not replace the need for thorough visual checks. Depending solely on the horn can lead to dangerous situations since it does not provide direct confirmation of the surroundings or potential obstacles.

Turning on hazard lights is important for visibility; however, it is not a substitute for ensuring that the path behind the vehicle is clear. Always prioritizing direct observation through mirrors and looking over your shoulder is critical in maintaining safety for both the driver and those around the ambulance. Therefore, checking the mirrors and looking over the shoulder should be standard protocols before backing up any vehicle, including an ambulance.