FAQ
The Questions I'm asked the most
Are Councils aware of Dixon's Hazard Response?
Dixon's Hazard Response is no secret and I had a meeting with city of Kwinana when I first when public with this service. It's almost impossible to have a sit down with every council in WA I have spoken with quite a few either in person, over the phone or via email.
city of Rockingham and city of Kwinana both are aware of my service and I have spoken with them both about it. Some councils like city of Kalamunda have even gone above and thanked me.
Why did you have a meeting with the City of Kwinana?
May of 2021 City of Kwinana reached out and asked for a meeting because they had concerns about Dixon's Hazard Response.
Their concerns were;
- A name implying security related Activities
- Untrained and under equipped operator
But after a meeting and providing my traffic management accreditation to them and agreeing to change the name they no longer cared.
What Authority do I have to run this service?
While I no more authority then you. my qualifications allow me to manage traffic hazards effectively. Legally, anyone can block a lane if it’s unsafe to proceed—say, due to a sinkhole or a car crash that is blocking that lane. Having proper equipment and traffic management training makes my presence safer than someone without the gear. Dixon’s Hazard Response consistently enhances road safety by managing hazards.
Can I legally block a lane or road?
If a lane is already blocked, I can park behind it with my amber lights on and warn other drivers. However, I cannot block a lane without a valid reason
What does Main Roads Western Australia think about Dixon's Hazard Response?
Despite previous inquiries, Main Roads has not provided a clear reasoning for their lack of support towards Dixon's Hazard Response. They have only stated that basic worksite traffic management does not authorize the type of work done by Dixon's Hazard Response. I now have my Worksite traffic management
I have reached out multiple times to Main Roads seeking answers to improve my service but they seem uninterested in helping small services like mine. It is worth noting that I do not require a traffic control certificate to operate Dixon's Hazard Response during emergencies such as vehicle breakdowns or crashes because anyone can provide traffic management in such situations. Our 'first responders' are often witnesses and locals who provide assistance before official response teams arrive on scene.
Despite my efforts to get clarification from Main Roads, they haven't been very helpful. The fact remains that in an emergency situation, anyone can step up and manage traffic. My goal with Dixon's Hazard Response is to be able to help those involved in incidents quickly and efficiently.
How much Do I charge?
Dixon's Hazard Response is a completely free service. I use my money to fund it. I don't charge you or the council Because it's free I do have a paid job and can't always attend an incident or call out but I always try.
I don't ask for or expect donations. I did set up a go fund me years ago but try not to share it.
At the request of others, this is the link.
Do I wear a body camera?
Yes, I do. I wear a body-worn recording device that is placed on my vest. I wear that for my safety as well as everyone else's. Traffic Controllers have near misses on a daily basis and I am no different. in 2020 I was actually hit by a car thankfully I was not injured.
A hear a lot that only cops wear body cameras but that couldn't be further from the truth. Now even Woolworths staff are starting to wear cameras in the eastern states.
Body cameras are amazing tools and I strongly believe main roads should make all traffic controllers wear them. I hear often that "you can't video me in public" so I spoke to a lawyer regarding the use of a body camera and this is what they said.
How do I justify using my own money to run this service?
The answer is straightforward: people have essential needs. We require oxygen, food, water, and shelter. Many of us also rely on air conditioning and cars. Life demands so much from us.
Personally, I feel a need to contribute to my community in my own way. While people frequently donate to charities, I choose to invest my time and fuel to assist my community.
Why do I take DIxon's Hazard Response seriously?
Three years ago, an unfortunate event occurred in my life—something beyond my control and with no one to blame. It was a family-related matter that plunged me into depression and isolation. One restless morning, unable to sleep, I took a drive and noticed road cones scattered everywhere. I activated my amber lights and cleared the obstruction. That experience inspired me to create Dixon’s Hazard Response. It was there for me during my darkest moments, and now I pay it forward by assisting others in their times of need.
Why did I choose the uniform I wear today?
The Orange vest with pink shirt has I deliberately stand out because my top priority is to be distinct from other services. While an orange vest paired with a pink shirt isn’t common, it catches attention. My choice of a vest allows me to conveniently carry essential tools like a torch, notebook, gloves, radio, and a body camera. Plus, the vest is lightweight and can be worn over any clothing
What do I use my UHF RADIO for?
This is a powerful tool that I use to talk with trucks, oversize loads or other traffic control personnel if I'm working on or near their site.
Do I get paid by any towing services?
No, Dixon's Hazard Response or Any one representing Dixon's Hazard Response does not get paid by any Towing service. However, I have received, on the odd occasions, a $200 spotters fee but I don't get paid for recommending them. Recently, I Have partnered up with a local Towing her in Kwinana, this company does not pay me and due to new laws coming into effect, I will no longer receive spotter fees
