Desist from ‘accident tourism’: Red Cross

ZIMBABWEANS have been urged to desist from “accident tourism” when they record photos and videos at accident scenes instead of assisting victims.

Addressing a meeting organised by the Zimbabwe Red Cross Association in Kadoma recently, National Social Security Authority principal factories and workers inspector for Mashonaland West province, Mr Absolom Zengeya said people should not be bystanders at an accident scene, but assist to save lives.

The association was holding a graduation ceremony for teachers from the province who had undergone disaster management training.

He said there was need to change the attitude and culture towards safety and health issues.

“Let us desist from accident tourism and not be helpless witnesses who standby to see off the accident victim on his departure from mother earth or rush to take photos for posting on WhatsApp and other social media platforms,” Mr Zengeya said.

He also bemoaned rowdy people who loot valuables at accident scenes.

“It is also despicable to note that some of our people even take accidents as the opportunity to loot valuables from the scene while those in need of help are groaning in pain and calling for help,” he said.

“Some do not even bother to assist the victims as they are afraid to be witnesses when investigations are conducted.”

Mr Zengeya urged students who would have been trained in first aid by the Zimbabwe Red Cross Association to conduct routine mock drills.

“We urge you to routinely carry out mock first aid drills so as to preclude or at least minimise the tendency to forget the skills that you were taught,” he said.