Accidents, First Aid and Emergency Procedures
When an accident happens, the priorities are protect, alert, assist: make the scene safe, call for help, then give first aid within your ability.
Protect the scene: switch off engines if safe, switch on hazard lights, place a warning triangle well behind the crash, and wear a reflective vest. Do not create a second accident.
Alert emergency services: give a clear location, number of casualties, and types of injuries. Stay on the line.
First aid basics:
- Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (fire, traffic). Suspected spinal injury means keep them still.
- Check breathing and circulation; if not breathing, start CPR if trained.
- Control bleeding with direct pressure using a clean cloth.
- Keep the casualty warm and reassure them.
- Do not give food or drink to an injured person.
Traps in questions:
- Moving a casualty "to make them comfortable" - dangerous if spinal injury is possible.
- Giving water to an unconscious or injured person - never do this.
- Forgetting to secure the scene before helping.
Rule of thumb: ABC - Airway, Breathing, Circulation - check in that order.
Worked example: You arrive at a crash where a motorcyclist is lying on the road. Correct first action: secure the scene (hazards, triangle, vest) and call emergency services before approaching, then keep the casualty still and warm.