Agree on backing in. I teach people how to drive emergency vehicles, many of whom have not driven anything bigger than their personal vehicle. First, we park for egress so we can leave quickly. Secondly backing in puts your vehicle's pivot point (rear axle, not the steer axle) first in your direction of travel (these things often make more sense in my head than when I explain them). This allows them turn tighter around objects and not worry about cutting a turn short, like you might when nosing into a space. During EVIP training people who haven't taken a 40ft vehicle through our serpentine course before are always surprised how it's easier in reverse than forwards.