• fire and collapsing buildings: move the casualty to
• safety;
• road accidents: instruct someone to control the traffic;
• electrocution: switch off the current; take necessary precautions against electric shock;
• gas and poisonous fumes: turn off at source, remove casualty to fresh air.

As for breathing, check that his airway is clear and that he is breathing; if not, commence artificial respiration. When the casualty is unconscious, place him in the recovery position.

Also check for serious bleeding and control it; raise the part if possible and if no fracture is suspected.

When these urgent matters have received attention, time can be taken to obtain the history of the accident, to weigh up the situation, and to decide in which order action should be taken. Establish the level of consciousness; immobilize all serious fractures and large wounds before moving the casualty, unless there is immediate danger to life from the surroundings; give appropriate treatment to the condition found.

Immediately it is decided that an ambulance is required. Call for it, stating:

• the exact place of the accident (if necessary with directions of how to get there);
• the number, and approximate age of the casualties;
• some indication of the type and seriousness of the accident, e.g. car crash, fall from building, the nature of the injury or injuries.

In all cases of suspected fracture of the spine, or heart attack, obtain medical aid, if readily available, or transport to hospital immediately. In country districts a doctor may be obtained more quickly than an ambulance.