BE PREPARED
I attended a ‘Biker Down’ course last evening. Over the years, I’ve had more first aid training courses than I could count and have used the skills learned more often than anyone would want. I didn’t expect to learn much that was truly new, but firmly believe you can never have enough refreshers and opportunities to practice in a safe environment. The question of helmet removal was going to be covered, so that was sure to be interesting and informative.
The first major surprise was that the team, besides representing paramedics, police, fire, Blood Bikes, and IAM, were all motorcyclists who commanded the respect of those attending by making observations that reflected what we know to be true, rather than what non-riding officials tell us. Good start.
The next revelation was that, although this was a three hour practical and practice session, it was not a first aid course. It was an intensive session on managing a ‘Biker Down’ event, including the scene, the rider(s), the communication with emergency services, other people at the scene and, insofar as possible, gathering accurate information for paramedics, police and fire. All good common sense, but important to have it explained and discussed by RealExperts.
Helmet Removal: don’t do it, unless absolutely necessary. A flip-front helmet or open face can usually be best left in place. Reasons for removal are simple:
1. the rider is not breathing and access to re-establish an airway is required
2. the rider insists and could injure him/ herself if not helped to remove the helmet
The technique for removing the helmet requires two people, and proper demonstration and training. It is critical to do it right, so if you are down and conscious, make sure nobody tries to help by removing your helmet!
They’ve even put together a ‘Biker Down’ first aid kit sold at pennies above cost price – the first one I’ve ever seen that is better than the one I put together for myself. I bought two; one for the bike, one for the car. This course is non-threatening, reassuring, requires no prior knowledge, is open to nonmotorcyclists, is spot-on designed, involves hands-on practice and is totally *FREE*. Even the tea and biscuits were free. I for one could not leave without chucking a donation in the bucket.
One final thought. This would be a more meaningful element of the driving and riding test than silly exercises riding around cones in a playground, perhaps?
An excellent initiative: thanks for the info, Bill. This award-winning course is now available across England and Wales, from Yorkshire to Cornwall. Could be an ideal club activity. Search for Biker Down UK on google or Facebook.