What is Emergency Rescue?

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In most emergency situations, you will need to move the victim to a place of safety. Immediate and well-executed emergency rescue can greatly improve the outcome of the victim. Read on to learn more about emergency rescue.

Emergency rescue refers to procedures of moving a victim from an unsafe location to a place of safety. It is limited to situations where there is immediate danger to the lives of the victims. This move uses protective techniques and methods to support the victim’s body and prevent further harm.

If a person is injured or ill and requires to be transported to a medical facility, the first aider should first decide whether the victim requires to be transferred to a short distance before being placed on stretcher. For instance, if the safe is unsafe or there is imminent danger, then the victim will have to be moved at a short distance first. Unless there is harm in the location, the victim should be treated first for life-threatening problems such as cardiac or respiratory arrest, bleeding, and airway obstruction before being transferred.

It should be stressed that improper rescue and transportation could only result in more harm. Proper emergency rescue procedures should be taken to ensure the safety and health of the victim. If you are alone and there is no clear danger at scene of accident, it would be best to wait for assistance before attempting to transfer the victim. While waiting for help, provide emergency care, reassure the victim, and avoid foolhardy or improper attempts at rescue that may only jeopardize the victim’s condition as well as that of the first-aider.

Some situations that require immediate emergency rescue include:

  • Fire, explosion or possibility of fire
  • Lack of oxygen or gas poisoning
  • Hazardous traffic conditions
  • Risk of injury from collapsing structures
  • Pinning by machinery
  • Exposure to intense weather conditions, heat or cold environments
  • Risk of drowning

When transferring the victim, it is important to avoid unnecessary

disturbances or movements. Ensure an open airway at all times and provide artificial ventilation if necessary. Check for possible bleeding and control bleeding. Look for other injuries that you may have left out in your primary survey. If possible, immobilize injured body parts. Make sure that there is available transportation to bring you to a medical facility.

Contacting EMS during an emergency
Contacting EMS during an emergency

It can be difficult for untrained and inexperienced helpers to lift and carry the

victim gently. As a trained first aider, you should provide guidance to helpers. If possible, it is recommended to practice the lifting procedure first before actually handling the victim.

Taking a first aid training course can equip you with the necessary skills in order to make proper and efficient emergency rescue. Visit your local St Mark James chapter today to know the available training schedule.

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