Staying Sharp: Why Even the Most Experienced Need Refresher Training

By Brian J. Riker

No matter how experienced you are, refresher training is essential. Whether it’s reviewing basic rules of the road or revisiting simple tow equipment operations like reengaging the free spool on your winches, a reminder of the fundamentals can prevent costly mistakes.

As part of my consulting work, I investigate workplace incidents to uncover the root causes of injuries, damage, or other events. Almost without exception, human error is at the heart of the problem. These errors don’t always come from deliberate shortcuts—though those happen, too—but often from complacency. Over time, routine tasks can become automatic, leading even the most experienced professionals to overlook basic steps.

I’ve been guilty of this myself. Most recently, while servicing a portable generator I use during extended power outages, I made an expensive mistake. The generator is dual-fuel, running on both propane and gasoline, but I’ve only ever used propane since it was new. I know the proper shutdown process: turn off the propane tank, let the fuel run out, and then switch off the key. However, without thinking, I turned off the key while the propane was still on. Realizing my error, I tried to restart it immediately, causing a massive backfire that damaged the carburetor, spark arrestor, and muffler. This costly blunder served as a vivid reminder to stay focused and mindful. How Does This Relate to Towing?

In towing, distractions are everywhere. People, wandering thoughts, or the pressure to rush to the next call can cause us to skip critical steps. That’s why routine practice in controlled environments is so important. NASCAR pit crews practice tire changes daily, firefighters drill with their equipment, and police officers regularly train at the shooting range. When tasks are practiced to the point of habit, the likelihood of missing a step during real-world execution is significantly reduced. Back to Basics

What are the basics we need to revisit? Everyday driving behaviors like stopping correctly at stop signs, understanding right-of-way at intersections, and safely merging back onto highways are often overlooked—even by seasoned towers. As professional drivers, it’s our duty to prioritize the safety of those around us by staying sharp and disciplined.

This sense of responsibility extends to operating tow equipment. Proper operation includes pre-use inspections, following manufacturer guidelines, and staying within the equipment’s design limits. A Common but Preventable Mistake

One frequent issue with tow trucks—particularly flatbed or rollback carriers—is winches unexpectedly jumping into free spool. This dangerous failure is entirely preventable with disciplined operation.

Start with proper maintenance, such as keeping the winch greased (if applicable) and ensuring the oil is at the correct level. For winches with adjustable free spool releases, familiarize yourself with how yours should be adjusted and check it periodically.

When disengaging the free spool, always release tension on the winch cable first—forcing it to disengage can cause problems. When reengaging, avoid forcing the control back in. Instead, slowly winch out until the free spool clicks into place, stop, and then winch in while observing the control to ensure it fully reengages. Many operators skip this step, leading to unexpected free spooling that can cause damage—or worse, injury or death. Self-Evaluation: The Key to Growth

These are just a few examples of what even experienced professionals might overlook. I challenge you to pause on your next call and honestly evaluate your performance. Are there small habits or steps you’ve neglected? You may be surprised at how many opportunities there are to brush up on the basics.

Honest self-assessment is one of the most effective tools for growth. It’s never too late—or too early—to refine your skills and take your professionalism to the next level.