Emergencies, Incidents and First Aid
Breakdowns and incidents
If you break down, move as far off the carriageway as possible, switch on hazard lights, and place a warning triangle where it can be seen safely. Get occupants to a safe place away from traffic. Report the location clearly, using markers and direction of travel.
At the scene of a crash
Protect the scene first: warn other traffic, switch off engines if safe, and do not move casualties unless there is immediate danger such as fire. Call the emergency services, give clear information, and stay until help arrives or you are released. Do not admit liability; exchange details as required.
First aid essentials
Know the priorities: danger, response, airway, breathing, circulation. Control severe bleeding with direct pressure, keep casualties warm, and do not give food or drink. For an unconscious but breathing casualty, use the recovery position. Be aware of spinal injury risk after a heavy vehicle collision.
Vehicle fires and escape
Know where extinguishers are, use them only on small fires and from a safe position, and evacuate if the fire involves fuel or the load.
Traps
Questions often test whether you protect the scene before helping. Another trap is moving a casualty who is not in immediate danger.
Rule of thumb
Warn, call, then help.
Worked example
You arrive at a crash where a driver is unconscious but breathing. Correct: make the scene safe, call emergency services, and place the casualty in the recovery position while monitoring breathing. Dragging them from the vehicle is wrong unless there is fire.