Health & Fitness
Accident scene responders face increasing dangers
Accident scene responders face increasing dangers as roadways are more congested with motorists who aren't always taking necessary precautions in moving past an accident scene.
Last Thursday afternoon, June 2, at 3:19 p.m., units from the Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No.1, Maryland State Police Barrack G, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, and Westminster Police Department responded to a vehicle collision with rescue at the intersection of Lucabaugh Mill Road and Route 27, just north of Westminster.
The accident and subsequent clean up snarled traffic north of Westminster for well over an hour.
At least one person was transported from the scene to a local hospital. No information is available as to the nature or extent of the victim’s injuries or their current status.
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Responses to accident scenes are often very complex and are further complicated by roadways that are congested with more and more motorists who may not take the extra care necessary at an accident scene.
The primary concerns of the responders are two-fold. One: provide quick, safe and methodical attention to all individuals injured as a result of the accident. The second concern is to secure the scene so the responders may work safely--and the roadway near the accident scene stays safe for the motorists passing by.
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Nationwide, concern continues to grow for the safety of the responders as the highways continue to get congested. There is a growing perception that driver behavior has deteriorated in recent years. For more information, go to ResponderSafety.com.
In a June 2001 NIOSH report, “Traffic Hazards to Fire Fighters While Working Along Roadways,” it was reported, “The number of fire fighters struck and killed by motor vehicles has dramatically increased within recent years… Motorists accustomed to a clear, unobstructed roadway may not recognize and avoid closed lanes or emergency workers on or near the roadway. In some cases, conditions can reduce a motorist’s ability to see and avoid fire fighters and apparatus…"
“These hazards are not limited to the fire service alone. Other emergency service providers such as law enforcement officers, paramedics, and vehicle recovery personnel are also exposed to these hazards.”
When approaching an accident scene: slow down, be patient, and watch and listen for instructions from emergency responders.
