What is a requirement for the serpentine exercise?

The requirement for the serpentine exercise is to drive in both forward and reverse between the markers. This aspect of the exercise is vital because it assesses the driver's ability to maneuver the vehicle in a confined space, a skill that is particularly important for driver operators in emergency situations. The serpentine pattern mimics real-world scenarios where quick changes in direction are necessary, such as navigating within tight spaces in an airport firefighting context.

Driving both forward and reverse ensures that the operator can control the vehicle effectively in multiple orientations, enhancing overall driving proficiency. Mastering this skill contributes to safety and efficiency in operations, making it crucial for the training of ARFF personnel.