One of the most common emergency situations you will likely come across is Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVAs).
Many people will stop and try to help when they witness an accident, however most are ill prepared for the dangers present. A well meaning passerby can quickly become a victim themselves, adding to the chaos of the scene and taking resources away from the original victims.
A few educated seconds spent assessing the situation can save needless injury and make the rescuer’s efforts much more effective.
While checking the scene for danger is a universal concept applied to all emergencies and first aid, MVAs present several unique and specific hazards:
Traffic, Fire/Explosion, Stored Kinetic Energy, Airbags, Electrical Lines, Broken Glass and Unstable Vehicles are among the most obvious.
In this article I will talk about the first three.
Traffic
The biggest threat at almost any MVA is not the accident itself but the vehicles zooming by, oblivious to both your presence and the threat they present.
If you are going to put yourself at risk to help, always try to position another vehicle between yourself and the area you are working in to create a protective barrier. Don’t worry if this slows down the roadway, that’s just what you want; and emergency crews will do the same thing when they arrive.
Cones, flares and reflective vests can increase visibility and possibly warn traffic ahead of time; however I don’t recommend trying to direct traffic yourself. If somebody will not steer around or slow down for a stopped vehicle they certainly won’t for a pedestrian (no matter how brightly garbed) either.
Fire/Explosion
Any vehicle which has been in an accident has the potential to leak fuel, create electrical or friction sparks and either burst into flame or explode at any time. Even the upholstery and interior contents can burn very rapidly, with extreme intensity.
Never go near or enter a vehicle, from which smoke or flame are evident except under the most dire circumstances.
As you approach take note of any liquids/fuels leaking from the underside. Make sure not to absorb any flammable substances onto your shoes or clothing. If there is any kind of slope or breeze it is generally safer to be uphill and upwind.
Stored Kinetic Energy
Anywhere a vehicle has been bent or compressed it holds potential kinetic energy. This means that the structures of the vehicle will have a tendency to return to their original shape, much like a spring. This occurs violently and without warning.
When doors, hatches, fenders and particularly bumpers release they can cause tremendous damage to anyone they contact, as well as flinging debris with great velocity.
Try approach the vehicle at an angle, so that when the energy releases you will not be in its path.
Summary
Using the information provided in this newsletter will give you greater control over the situation; however there may be factors beyond your influence.
If you are unsure: Keep Yourself Safe!
In future articles I will continue discussing MVAs and the hazards they present. |
