From road safety to home hazards: World Trauma Day highlights prevention

Trauma is a deeply disturbing experience and severe shock that causes great distress. It can be brought about by severe injuries or shock to the body, often caused by accidents, violence, or natural disasters.

Whilst psychological trauma may not present visible physical wounds, the emotional and mental impact is profound and requires psychological first aid and long-term care to aid emotional recovery.

Trauma remains one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. To raise awareness about preventative measures and support offered to trauma victims, World Trauma Day is commemorated annually on 17 October.

Access to a rapid and well-coordinated trauma system – involving emergency medical services (EMS), qualified medical personnel, and well-equipped hospitals – can mean the difference between life and death.

On the day, ER24 in Kimberley, in collaboration with Mediclinic Gariep, Rocket Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS), the fire and traffic departments, and PathCare, presented an exhibition featuring a simulated vehicle accident and rescue attempt in MacDougal Street, outside Mediclinic Gariep.

During the event, members of the public and school groups had the opportunity to examine the interior of an ER24 ambulance and a Rocket HEMS helicopter ambulance. Groups of children were also given guided tours of the hospital.

Safety measures at an accident scene

Albert Hensberg, branch manager of ER24 in Kimberley, advises that if you encounter a vehicle accident where help is already present, do not stop to observe, as vehicles accumulating can cause secondary accidents.

“If EMS are not yet present and you know first aid, you can assist the injured. However, if you do not know first aid, it’s better to stay away and call for emergency assistance,” he suggests.

• When calling EMS, provide as much detail as possible: how many people are injured; how many vehicles are involved; whether passengers are trapped in vehicles; whether the accident is blocking the road; and any other relevant information.
• Further advice on er24.co.za states that when calling EMS, remain calm and speak clearly. Also report any possibility of other dangers, such as live electricity, blood, fire hazards, glass, or road traffic.
• Never move injured persons unless you must relocate them to a safer place – they could have broken bones or internal injuries that movement might worsen. If children are present, ensure they are supervised and comforted.

Hensberg’s primary advice when taking the wheel is: “Do not drink and drive, and avoid distractions whilst driving.” Additionally, ensure you carry your ID and medical aid card.

Leading causes of vehicle crashes

• Distracted driving through texting, applying makeup, eating, adjusting the radio, removing clothing, or arguing with passengers.
• Drunk driving, which is not only illegal and unwise, but also causes many fatal accidents.
• Reckless driving, including speeding, unsafe overtaking, disregarding traffic signs, and dangerous lane changes.
• Poor road conditions, such as potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting, which are responsible for many road accidents.
• Human factors, such as fatigue, stress, and medical conditions, which also contribute to road accidents. Get a good night’s sleep before long journeys and take breaks every two hours to rest and stretch
• Lack of regular car maintenance, which is essential to prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures. Check your tyres, brakes, and steering regularly, and address any issues promptly.

Common causes of trauma at home

At home, falls, electric shocks, and accidental poisoning are common causes of trauma. ER24 provides the following precautions:

• Prevent falls by addressing common hazards such as tripping over toys or clutter, slipping on wet tiles, and losing footing on staircases.
• Secure flooring by placing slip-resistant underfelt or matting under rugs and carpets to prevent sliding. Use non-slip mats and tiles in bathrooms and kitchens. Teach children not to walk in socks on slippery surfaces.
• Clean up spills immediately.
• Install handrails in baths or showers, particularly if elderly relatives live with you.
• Store all sharp kitchen and garden tools safely.
• Ensure internal and external staircases are well-lit and have secure handrails.

Prevent electric shocks by taking these measures:

• Only use qualified electricians for electrical wiring and appliance repairs.
• Inspect appliances regularly, ensuring power cords are not cracked or frayed.
• If an appliance sparks or smokes when switched on, replace it immediately.
• When using outdoor electrical equipment, such as lawnmowers and power tools, ensure extension cords are rated for outdoor use and keep them away from water sources.

Additional safety measures include:

• Always store medicines, swimming pool chemicals, and household cleaning products in cupboards and cabinets where children cannot reach them.
• Keep emergency service numbers readily available.
• Keep fire extinguishers in easily accessible places and teach everyone in the household how to use them.
• Assemble a well-stocked first aid kit and ensure everyone knows its location.

• Call ER24 on 084 124. Branches have recently opened in Douglas and Vaalharts.

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