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Approach Properly During Motor Vehicle Collisions

In an emergency situation, whether you're involved in the accident or providing aid, it's crucial to know the appropriate steps to save lives and minimize risks. District Fire Chief Andy Dorroch offers valuable guidance on how to act during a crisis.

Handling Traffic Mishaps Appropriately
Handling Traffic Mishaps Appropriately

Approach Properly During Motor Vehicle Collisions

In the event of a road accident, ensuring safety is the top priority. If you find yourself in such a situation, dial the emergency number 112 to connect directly with the fire department and emergency services.

While waiting for help to arrive, it's crucial to offer further assistance. This may include securing the accident scene or providing first aid to those involved. Knowing measures like the recovery position or CPR can be invaluable in such situations.

It's essential to maintain a calm demeanour in emergency situations, as advised by Andy Dorroch. He also warns against rubbernecking, stating it's a big no-no as it hinders rescue operations and puts people in danger. The police are actively controlling and penalizing violations related to rubbernecking.

To make the accident scene more visible, hazard lights should be turned on, reflective vests worn, and a warning triangle placed. The distance of the warning triangle depends on the permitted maximum speed. At 100 km/h, it should be 100 meters away from the accident scene.

In addition to the emergency number 112, the police can also be reached at 110, according to Andy Dorroch. However, he does not suggest any new emergency numbers to call beyond these.

Regularly refreshing one's first aid course can help react confidently in accident situations. Dorroch encourages all road users to act responsibly and contribute to accident victims receiving help quickly. If possible, leave the roadway and seek safety behind a barrier.

Everyone can make a difference in such situations. Offering support, even small gestures, can have a big impact. Dorroch's emphasis is on preventing further dangers in emergency situations, and he does not provide details on how to care for those involved beyond the earlier mentioned first aid.

Among the firefighters mentioned by name, Mathias (also called Mathes) holds the rank of Zugführer, which is the closest rank to a leader mentioned in the text. Dorroch does not specify any new measures for securing the accident scene beyond the standard practices.

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