Emergency Procedures, Incidents and First Aid Basics
At the scene of a collision
Stop, switch off engines, and make the area safe. Warn other traffic with hazard lights and a warning triangle placed well behind the scene on a straight road. Call emergency services, giving location, number of casualties and any hazards. Do not move injured people unless there is immediate danger such as fire. Do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless their airway is obstructed.
First aid essentials
Check response and breathing. If not breathing normally, start CPR - chest compressions at a steady rate with minimal interruption - and send for an AED. For bleeding, apply firm direct pressure. For burns, cool with clean running water and do not burst blisters. Keep casualties warm and reassured, and monitor breathing until help arrives.
Vehicle emergencies
If a tyre bursts, hold the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator and let the car slow before braking gently and steering to the side. If brakes fail, pump the pedal, use engine braking through lower gears, and use the handbrake gently. If you skid, ease off and steer smoothly in the direction you want to go. If your vehicle breaks down, get occupants out on the safe side and behind a barrier where possible.
Traps in questions
A common trap is moving an injured casualty "to make them comfortable" - wrong unless there is danger. Another is removing a helmet. A third is braking hard during a blowout or skid; smooth, gentle inputs are correct. Remember to record details and report the collision as required by law.
Worked example
A front tyre bursts at speed. Correct sequence: grip the wheel firmly, keep the car straight, ease off the accelerator, let speed fall, then brake gently and pull over. Hard braking or sharp steering at the moment of the burst can cause a spin.