Road safety, accident prevention and emergency behaviour
What the exam tests
This domain tests prevention first and reaction second: seatbelts, child restraints, helmets, hazard perception, distraction, and the correct sequence at a crash scene. Cameroon's emergency response is often delayed, so the first person on scene may be the only helper.
Prevention
Seatbelts are compulsory for front and rear occupants; children need an appropriate restraint. Motorcyclists must wear a helmet. The main killers are speed, alcohol, fatigue, phone use and following too closely. Scan far ahead, cover the brake near schools and markets, and expect pedestrians, goats and motorbikes to appear without warning. At night, dip headlights for oncoming traffic and slow down beyond the reach of your lights.
At the scene
Use the sequence Protéger – Alerter – Secourir:
- Protect: switch on hazard lights, stop clear of the wreck, place a warning triangle well before the scene on the same side, and keep bystanders back.
- Alert: call the emergency services, giving location, number of casualties and hazards.
- Rescue: only move an injured person if there is fire, drowning or another immediate danger. Do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless breathing is obstructed. Control bleeding with direct pressure, keep the casualty warm, and do not give food or drink.
Special emergencies
Tyre blowout: grip the wheel, ease off the accelerator, do not brake hard, and steer to the shoulder. Brake failure: pump the pedal, use engine braking through the gears, then the handbrake gently. Fire: stop, switch off the engine, get everyone out and move upwind. Never open a bonnet fully if flames are visible.
Worked example
A motorcyclist has fallen and is unconscious but breathing. Reasoning: protect the scene first, call for help, check the airway, and place the rider in the recovery position without removing the helmet. Moving or helmet removal could worsen a spinal injury; only act if breathing is threatened.
Traps
Moving casualties unnecessarily, forgetting the warning triangle, standing in the traffic lane, leaving the scene after a collision, and giving water to an injured person.