How many feet should be between cones on a scene?

• A. 50 feet.
• B. 30 feet.
• C. 60 feet.
• D. 20 feet.

Answer: (A)

The distance between cones is about creating a clear, safe channel for traffic to follow and for responders to work within. Fifty feet between cones provides a balance: it gives drivers enough sight distance to notice the cone line, slow gradually, and stay in the designated path, while still leaving a workable width for personnel and equipment inside the channel. If the cones are placed much closer together, the channel becomes cramped and confusing, increasing the risk of vehicles or workers being pinched or struck. If they’re spaced much farther apart, the line loses its effectiveness as a boundary, and drivers may drift out of the controlled area or accelerate back up to speed. Fifty feet is a practical, commonly used spacing that supports visibility, safe maneuvering, and worker protection on a scene.