In the REPS mnemonic, what does the letter P stand for?

• A. Plan ahead
• B. Protect speed
• C. Prevent hazards
• D. Push through

Answer: (A)

Plan ahead is what the P stands for, and it means taking time before you drive or deliver to anticipate what could go wrong and set things up to prevent problems. This includes checking weather and road conditions, mapping a safe route and timing with buffers, ensuring the vehicle and load are secure, and having a backup plan if delays happen. The idea is to prepare so you don’t have to improvise under pressure, which reduces risk and helps you stay safe and on schedule.

Other options don’t fit the idea of planning before action. Protect speed would imply rushing or maintaining speed in ways that can be unsafe, and pushing through suggests pressing on despite obstacles rather than preparing to avoid them. Prevent hazards is important, but it’s a broader safety aim rather than the specific proactive step described by Plan ahead.