First Aid, Emergencies and Accident Procedure
At the scene
Your first duty is scene safety: stop in a safe place, switch on hazard lights, place a warning triangle where it can be seen, and keep bystanders back. Call Rescue 1122, the Motorway Police helpline 130, or police 15. Give location, number of casualties and hazards.
First aid priorities
Use DRABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Do not move a casualty unless there is immediate danger such as fire. For severe bleeding, apply firm direct pressure. For an unconscious but breathing casualty, place them in the recovery position and monitor. If not breathing normally, start CPR at 30 compressions to 2 breaths, 100–120 compressions per minute, depth about 5–6 cm. Cool burns with clean running water; do not burst blisters or apply toothpaste. Do not give food or drink to an injured person.
Legal and practical duties
After a collision you must stop, give your name, address and vehicle details, and report the incident to police. Do not leave the scene. Do not move vehicles unless they are a danger or police direct it.
Worked example
A motorcyclist is unconscious but breathing after a crash. The correct sequence is: secure the scene, call 1122, check airway and breathing, place in the recovery position, monitor continuously, and not remove the helmet unless the airway is obstructed.
Traps
Moving an injured rider unnecessarily; removing a helmet as a routine step; giving water to a casualty; leaving the scene to fetch help alone instead of calling; failing to warn approaching traffic.