At a minimum, how many cones should an emergency vehicle be able to deploy?

The correct answer is based on the standard practices for emergency response scenarios, particularly when it comes to creating a safe environment at incident scenes. Deploying five cones with a 200-foot taper ensures that there is a sufficient warning for approaching motorists, thus enhancing safety for both emergency personnel and civilians.

The use of cones is critical for guiding traffic away from hazards and controlling the flow of vehicles. The specified taper length is also significant; a 200-foot taper allows ample distance for drivers to react appropriately to the presence of emergency vehicles. This measure helps minimize the risk of accidents or collisions in and around the emergency scene.

In comparison to other options, while some may present higher numbers of cones or longer taper distances, they either exceed practical needs or do not comply with the recommended standards for effective scene management. This makes five cones with a 200-foot taper an optimal choice for maintaining safety and efficiency at emergency scenes.