As the December holidays approach, the roads are bound to be busier than usual. Netcare 911 has provided some tips to know what to do should you get involved in an accident.
- Stop at a safe place, put your hazard lights on and place warning triangle to alert motorists.
- Check the scene for any possible hazards including petrol leaks, fire or incoming traffic.
- If you are injured, it is best to stay where you are and wait for medical assistance. If you are not injured, check on the other people involved to establish if they need assistance.
- If a driver, passenger or pedestrian have sustained any injuries contact Netcare 911 on 082 911.
- Remember to give the call taker your number in case the call is disconnected. Stay on the line until the person you are speaking to indicates that you may hang up.
- State the nature of the incident, the number of injured people and the nature of their injuries as well as the exact location.
- Avoid coming in contact with the bodily fluids of others like blood, urine, sputum, secretions etc.
- Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, mask, CPR barrier mask (when giving rescue breathing) and goggles.
- If possible, place a barrier between you and the bodily fluids of other individuals.
- Do not move an injured person unless there is a direct threat to their life, as you could cause more harm by moving an injured person.
- Try to keep the injured person calm by reassuring them that help is on the way.
- If anyone involved in the accident has a wound that is bleeding excessively, use a clean cloth and apply pressure to the wound.
- If you are appropriately trained and it is necessary to do so, give first aid such as CPR.
- Keep the injured person warm.
- If you are involved in a collision, do not remove foreign objects impaled in a person’s body. This may cause further harm or even death. Do not administer any oral fluids, alcohol or medication.
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