Be the first to care

This week the media has reported to us terrible tragedy across our province where people have lost their lives due to motor vehicle collisions. These instances were reported to emergency responders first by a bystander, someone who was the first on the scene of the horrific crash. You might be the first upon a motor vehicle collision; would you know what to do?

The law in Saskatchewan does not force you to stop and render aid, but if you were the victim you’d certainly want help as soon as possible. Being the first one upon a vehicle collision can be a very frightening experience. But take a deep breath and do something, because what might not seem as much is something very important to those injured persons.

If you stop, then make sure you do so safely. Park your vehicle a safe distance away and approach the scene carefully. Watch for hazards like down power lines, spilled fuel or other vehicles that might still be trying to get passed the collision. Using your cell phone or send someone to the phone to get help. Try to tell the emergency medical dispatcher exactly where you are. If you are travelling try to use visible land marks or for example you last drove through this town 10 minutes ago. Be as specific as you can to where you are. Tell the emergency medical dispatcher how many people are injured, if anyone is providing first aid or what types of injuries the people might have. Do not move any injured people unless they are in danger of further injury such as the vehicle is on fire. Keep calm and keep everyone else calm.

If you know first aid great that training will now be put to good use. If you don’t then don’t panic simple things like keeping people warm with a blanket can be a huge help. Remember something is better than nothing! As you approach an injured person ask yourself these questions:

1. Is the scene safe
2. Have I called for help
3. Is the injured person awake and able to talk to me
4. Is the injured person breathing – am I able to help their breathing by using a barrier device and blowing air into the injured person
5. Control any bleeding with whatever cloth or first aid gauze you have. Use firm direct pressure.
6. Try to remember what happen as simple things like telling paramedics they stop talking 5 minutes ago can be very important information.

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If there is more than one injured person it might be a very real challenge to look after both people. Do your best and help out as much as possible. When the paramedics arrive, make sure you try to give as much information as possible. Being the first upon the scene of a collision might make the difference to the injured person. Knowing what to do is as easy as taking a first aid class. Be prepared when you travel by having a few blankets, first aid kit and paying attention to where you are in case you need make that important first call for help. First There and First to Care and make the difference!