Make way for the professionals at accident scenes
If you hear authorities approaching, move out of the way and give them space, to not only work, but to park their vehicles as well.
When it comes to an accident scene, there are bound to be bystanders present, before and even after authorities arrive.
In most cases, a bystander will be the one that witnesses an accident and makes the first call for help, to either the nearest police station or ambulance.
There may be a case where an accident victim may show no signs of life or his or her breathing begins to slow down and this is where a member of the public may step in and help with CPR for example, should paramedics still be on the way.
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When help does arrive, the most important thing to do would be to step back to ensure that the victim receive the best help he or she could possibly get.
There have been times when a major accident occurs and, out of curiosity, many people crowd the scene, often blocking way for authorities to get to the victims and do what’s necessary. The crowding or reluctance to move doesn’t just affect the medics getting to the patients, but they now also have to concern themselves about the safety of the public around them.
The safety of members of the public also becomes of particular concern when it’s a road accident and the lanes haven’t been closed off for traffic. It’s best to stand on a sidewalk or next to the road that the accident is on rather than right in the middle of the scene.
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If you hear authorities approaching the scene, move out of the way and give them space, to not only work, but to park their vehicles as well.
Should you find yourself at an accident scene:
• Do not remove someone from a vehicle unless it is actively burning and it is safe for you to reach the patient.
• Always make your own safety top priority.
• Never turn an overturned vehicle back on its wheels while an accident victim is still inside it. Wait for fire and rescue services.
• Do not shake or pull on the vehicle or doors to try and free someone. Wait for fire and rescue services to use proper equipment to free the victim.
• Try not to make contact with any body fluids such as blood, etc. If you must, ensure that you have gloves on before doing so.
All should run smoothly and hopefully you don’t get in the way of anyone if you ever find yourself at an accident scene.
Source: ER24
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