Experts urge safety as emergency cases rise in summer
Know what to do if you’re first at an accident scene, from keeping calm to helping the injured safely.
As many South Africans look forward to the summer holidays, emergency departments are preparing for the annual rise in medical cases and trauma injuries often seen at this time of year. An emergency medicine specialist and Netcare 911 have shared essential tips to help travellers avoid common health and safety hazards.
“With the excitement of holidays and year-end festivities, it can be tempting to let your guard down or forget basic medical and safety precautions,” warns Dr Steve Feris, an emergency medicine specialist at Netcare St Anne’s Hospital.
“Small precautions can save lives, and the holidays or after-exam celebrations are no exception. Accidents happen when least expected, but many are preventable.
“In our hot summer climate, dehydration and heatstroke are real dangers. Drivers must stay well hydrated and take regular breaks to stay alert. Never leave anyone, including pets, in a parked vehicle – not even for a few minutes – as temperatures inside a car can rise quickly and become life-threatening.”
Feris also advises travellers to carry all prescribed medications and ensure they have enough for the duration of the trip, especially if delays occur. People with chronic conditions should take extra care to monitor and manage their health during the holidays and seek medical attention early if something feels wrong.
Hand and food hygiene are also crucial while travelling, Feris adds.
“Roadside meals and unfamiliar food outlets can expose travellers to gastrointestinal infections or ‘tummy bugs’, which may range from uncomfortable to severe.
“Stick to light snacks such as crackers and foods less likely to support bacterial growth. Avoid heavy meals or anything prepared under questionable conditions or in bulk without proper temperature control.”
Safety tips to prevent road accidents
Netcare 911’s regional operations manager, Shaun Paul, says road safety starts before departure with a full vehicle service and safety check. “Ensure you have a warning triangle, a working emergency torch and an up-to-date first aid kit for every trip,” he advises.
“Driver fatigue and drunk driving are major, preventable causes of road accidents. Take regular breaks, rest when needed, and never drive under the influence. Passengers should also insist that the driver is sober.”
He emphasises the importance of seatbelts and age-appropriate car seats, noting that children should never travel on someone’s lap.
“Stay focused on the road and be alert to other road users. Avoid distractions from mobile devices – leave calls, messages and navigation to passengers or stop in a safe place before checking your phone,” says Paul.
Travellers are encouraged to download the Netcare App ahead of time. It offers emergency call and geolocation features that help reduce response times by accurately locating callers, even in remote areas. The app also includes a Netcare 911 60-second callback option.
“With the busiest time on the roads approaching, patience and caution can prevent many accidents and tragedies. Travellers can rest assured that Netcare 911 is ready to provide emergency medical assistance throughout the season, alongside other emergency services,” Paul concludes.
