Figure 2-12.  Standard hand signals used to assist pilots in managing  a safe departure from the ramp to the taxiway or runway. NIGHT OPERATION Stop Come ahead Emergency stop Cut engines  All clear (O.K.) Left turn Start engine  Pull chocks Insert Chocks Slow down Right turn Same hand  movements as  day operations • Refueling operations • Passenger and baggage security and loading • Ramp and taxi operations • Standard ramp signals 2-12 Prior to engine start, the pilot must ensure that the ramp area  surrounding the airplane is clear of persons, equipment, and  other hazards from coming into contact with the airplane  or the propeller. Also, an awareness of what is behind the  airplane prior to engine start is standard practice. A propeller  or other engine thrust can produce substantial velocities, result  in damage to property, and injure those on the ground. The  hazard of debris being blown into persons or property must  be mitigated by the pilot. At all times before engine start, the  anti-collision lights should be turned on. For night operations,  Airplane engines vary substantially and specific procedures  for engine starting must be accomplished in reference to  approved engine start checklist as detailed in the airplane’s  AFM/POH. However, some generally accepted hazard  mitigation practices and procedures are outlined. Some ramps may be staffed by personnel to assist the  pilot in managing a safe departure from the ramp to the  taxiway. These personnel use standard hand signals and the  pilot should be familiar with the meaning of those signals.  [Figure 2-12] Ramp traffic may vary from a deserted open space to a  complex environment with heavy corporate or military  aircraft. Powerful aircraft may produce an environment, from  exhaust blast or rotor downwash, which could easily cause a  light airplane to become uncontrollable. Mitigating these light  airplane hazards is important to starting off on a safe flight. Passengers may have little experience with the open ramp of  an airport. The pilot must ensure the safety of their passengers  by only allowing them to undertake freedoms for which they  have been given direction by the pilot. At no time should  passengers be allowed to roam the ramp without an escort to  ensure their safety and ramp security. Baggage loading and  security should be directly supervised by the pilot. Unsecured  baggage or improperly loaded baggage may adversely affect  the center of gravity of the airplane. During refueling operations, it is advisable that the pilot  remove all passengers from aircraft during fueling operations  and witness the refueling to ensure that the correct fuel and  quantity is dispensed into the airplane and that any caps and  cowls are properly secured after refueling. helicopters, and errant animals. The pilot is responsible  for the operation of their airplane and must operate safely  at all times. Ground operations provide unique hazards,  and mitigating those hazards requires proper planning and  situational awareness at all times in the ground environment. A  fundamental ground operation mitigation tactic is for the pilot  to always have reviewed the airport diagram prior to operating  and have it readily available at all times. Whether departing  to or from the ramp, the pilot must maintain a high level of  awareness that requires preparation to maximize safety. This  includes being familiar and competent with the following: Engine Starting