First aid, breakdowns and emergency procedures
This domain tests the first actions after a crash or breakdown: protect the scene, alert the emergency services and help only within your training. The order matters, because a rescuer struck by traffic becomes a second casualty.
Emergency sequence
Protect: switch on hazard lights, put on the reflective vest, place the warning triangle about 30 m behind the vehicle on a straight road, and move passengers behind the barrier or well off the carriageway. Alert: call the police, fire or ambulance and give the exact location, number of casualties and hazards. Rescue: only move an injured person if there is immediate danger such as fire.
First aid
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure; keep the injured person warm; do not remove a motorcyclist's helmet unless breathing is obstructed; place an unconscious but breathing casualty in the recovery position.
Worked example
A motorcyclist is down but breathing. Reasoning: protect the scene first, call for help, then check breathing. Do not pull off the helmet, because that can worsen a neck injury.
Traps
Moving an injured person unnecessarily; standing on the carriageway; forgetting the triangle; leaving the scene of a crash.