No one prays to be involved in any kind of accident, but I think it’s important to know what to do if you find yourself in one! Now, even if it’s not for you, this could help someone, somewhere.
First, what not to do: Do not start running. Always rest all your senses. This is to ensure that you can trust your judgement on your eventual escape plan!
#1: Look around you.
This involves trying to make sure you can see. At this point, don’t move your body; just try to take a look at your immediate environment. Look at your body, and as far as your eyes can see (without you having to move your head too much). This is to see if you have injuries. Whatever you see, please, remain calm as much as you can. Act from calmness.
#2: Try to smell for smoke or fuel leaks.
This gives you the safety level of the environment. If you do smell gas or fuel, then you need to try to leave the place as soon as possible. As much as you need to rush out, your life is the only priority here and you need to consider this. The only thing you can do is to be quick with the processes I am giving you.
#3: Try to feel things around you.
This should be done with minimal body movements. Try to see if you can feel the things close to you. Do you feel heat or cold? Do you feel plastic, metal, or wood around you? Do you feel numb? Can you even feel at all?
#4: Check to see if you can move.
Start with your neck. Do it as slowly as possible. Then try to see if you can move your hands and legs. See how far you can move them before you feel pain. If there is pain, where is the source of the pain? Is it as a result of a skin tear? Is the pain internal? How intense is the pain? When you feel the pain is not much, try to free yourself without rushing, but as fast as possible. Rushing increases blood flow; and this would be bad if you have a wound.
After this, try to move out of the scene without hurting others (incase you are not the only one involved).
#5: Call for help!
Use things around you to your advantage. Call out for help or try to find a way to direct people to that place. First, try using your voice. Try: “somebody help!” Be as loud as needed.
If it’s a vehicle, try and use any audio or light indicator— the horn, the lights, or anything! This is to ensure others locate the crash-site.
#6: Try to leave the scene.
If you can, leave the scene. Try to be on the lookout for the conditions of the accident. What’s the situation? Is there a fire? How many people can you see?
Is anyone else alive? Is the situation getting worse? Do you recall where you are? What’s the location of the crash? How would you describe it if asked?
#7: See your doctor immediately!
No matter how okay you feel. Please ensure you check yourself with your doctor, or in any nearby (or available) hospital.
Wishing you all the best.
Harkheindzel Kenny Omiyale
http://harkheindzel.wordpress.com
