First Aid and Emergency Response
Securing the scene first
Before helping, protect yourself and others: switch off the engine, apply the handbrake, switch on hazard lights, put on a reflective vest and place the warning triangle at an appropriate distance. Call the emergency number and give a clear location, number of casualties and hazards. Only move an injured person if there is immediate danger such as fire, because movement can worsen spinal injuries.
The primary survey
Check responsiveness and breathing. If the casualty is unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin chest compressions: push hard and fast in the centre of the chest at roughly 100–120 per minute, allowing full recoil, and continue until help arrives or the casualty recovers. If trained and willing, use an automated external defibrillator, following its spoken prompts. If the casualty is breathing but unconscious, place them in the recovery position and monitor breathing.
Bleeding, burns and shock
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure, using a clean dressing and, if necessary, the casualty's own hand. Cool burns with clean cool water for a sustained period and do not remove stuck clothing. Keep casualties warm and still to limit shock; do not give food or drink.
Traps
Questions test whether you should move a casualty (usually no), whether to give water (no), and the correct compression rate. Another trap is forgetting scene safety - a helper struck by traffic creates a second casualty.
Rule of thumb
Remember the sequence scene safe → call → check breathing → compress or recovery position. Nothing you do for the casualty matters if you become a casualty yourself.