We are biking enthusiasts, we ride bikes which are not a very safe way to commute especially in our kind of environments and as they say “Sh*t happens”! I came across this article in a personal diary, thought of sharing with everyone so that we are better equipped in case of accidents. The following are mostly applicable to riders, bikers, tourers and might be of help on other occasions as well.
In Case of an Accident
- Do not move the patient unnecessarily
- Keep him warm
- Be calm and composed – both patient and helper
- Do not circle around the patient
- Allow ample amount of ventilation around
Do’s & Dont’s
- Respiration: Check If the patient is respiring. If it is falling, you can provide artificial Mouth to Mouth or Mouth to Nose respiration.
- Bleeding: Capture the bleeding and guard the wounded area. Cover the wound with a dressing and apply a firm bandage. Try to keep the wound elevated and at rest.
- Fractures: A fracture could be caused by even a small fall from the bike. Immobilize it with an appropriately padded strong support. Support should be suitably sized so that it supports the joints on either side of the fracture.
- Nose Bleeding: In case of a nasal impact, set the patient up facing the breeze and the head slightly forward. Ask him to breathe through the mouth and not to blow the nose. Apply a cold compress over the nose. The soft part of the nose may be pinched close with the fingers for 10 minutes.
- Burns & Scalds: The difference between a burn and scald is that burns are caused by dry heat and a scald by moist heat like steam, very hot water or oil. As soon as you are the victim, cool the area with cold water for 10-20 minutes or till pain subsides. In case of blisters, do not burst them. Cover the area with sterile or clean cloth, pad and bandage.
- Bee Sting: Many of us are culprits of teasing bees and when they retaliate results are very painful. In case you are bitten by a bee either by your mistake or someone else’s, do not press the bag (of the sting). Use forceps and remove the sting and apply cold or weak ammonia on to the area.
- Fainting: Lay the patient down and loosen the clothing around chest and waist. Turn head to one side and raise the legs a little. Do not give any solids or liquids. Upon recovery of the patient, a small quantity of a drink may be given and allowed to sit up and move after rest.
- Animal Bite: How many of us have been bitten by animals while we are enjoying our biking tours? As soon as this happens wash the wound with soap and plenty of water. You can apply loose bandage. Seek for quick medical aid.
- Snake Bite: Majority of snakes are non poisonous, however, its not us who will decide the specie of the culprit snake. As soon as a patient is bitten by a snake the first thing is to keep the patient calm. Wash the surrounding area with plenty of water and soap. Do not rub the bite hard. Apply a constrictive bandage on the heart side of the bite. Di bit apply continuously for more than 20 minutes. Do not incise or suck the wound. Get aid quickly and try to identify the snake.
These are the very basic first aid which might help in case of an emergency. If you are in doubt of the treatment do not do anything. You may do more harm. These are only hints but can be life saviors at times. The basic principle which should be remembered is: “Call for medical help as soon as there is an emergency”. And always remember to ride safe.
Regards,
Saad Khan
