Stretcher Incident – Quick Help Guide
If you ever see a stretcher being used after a crash or a roadside emergency, you’re looking at a stretcher incident. It means someone is injured and needs fast, careful help. Acting fast can stop a minor injury from becoming a major one, and the right moves keep everyone safe – including you.
Recognizing a Stretcher Incident
The first sign is the presence of a stretcher itself – a flat frame with a canvas or plastic surface, often rolled out near a vehicle. You’ll also notice a person who can’t walk, a teammate or a by‑stander struggling to keep the injured person still, or an ambulance crew already on the scene. If you hear a loud crash, see broken glass, or smell gasoline, you’re probably dealing with an accident that needs a stretcher.
Look for obvious injuries: bleeding, obvious bone breaks, or a person who appears dazed. Even if the person seems okay, moving them without support can cause hidden injuries. That’s why recognizing the situation early matters.
Immediate Actions to Take
1. Stay safe. Before you get close, make sure the area isn’t a fire hazard, leaking fuel, or on a busy road. If it’s unsafe, step back and wait for professional help.
2. Call for help. Dial 112 (or your local emergency number) and tell them it’s a stretcher incident – mention the location, type of crash, and number of people involved. If you have the Ford Rapid Assistance app, hit the emergency button to alert our 24/7 support team right away.
3. Don’t move the injured person. Keep them still on the stretcher unless there’s an immediate danger like fire or water. If you must move them, slide the stretcher gently, never lift the person directly.
4. Secure the scene. Use warning triangles, flashers, or any visible marker to keep other drivers away. If you have a reflective vest, wear it so you’re visible to traffic.
5. Provide basic first aid. If you’re trained, check the airway, breathing, and circulation. If the person is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth. Keep talking to them calmly to reassure them until help arrives.
6. Use Ford Rapid Assistance. Our team can guide you through any car‑related complications – from disabling a faulty airbag to arranging a tow. We’ll also coordinate with emergency services if you need extra equipment.
7. Stay until professionals take over. Once the ambulance crew or fire department arrives, give them a quick rundown of what happened, what you observed, and any first aid you’ve given.
Remember, the best thing you can do is keep the injured person stable and get qualified responders on site fast. Your calm actions can make a huge difference in the outcome.
If you’re ever unsure, the safest call is to contact Ford Rapid Assistance. We’re on standby 24/7, ready to give you the right advice for any vehicle emergency, including stretcher incidents.
