The STOP Procedure
- Stop — you are legally required to stop if involved in or witnessing a serious collision
- Think — is it safe to approach? Check for fire, fuel leaks, oncoming traffic
- Observe — how many casualties? Are they conscious? Breathing?
- Plan — call 112, warn oncoming traffic, assign tasks to bystanders
Securing the Scene
- Switch on hazard lights immediately
- Place a warning triangle at least 50 m behind on normal roads; 100 m or more on a motorway
- Wear a reflective vest — keep one in your car
- On a motorway: keep everyone behind the barrier if possible
Calling 112
Tell the operator: where you are (road number, nearest town, motorway junction), what happened, how many are injured, and whether anyone is unconscious or not breathing. Stay on the line.
The Recovery Position
If a casualty is unconscious but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position to keep the airway open and prevent choking. Do NOT move someone if you suspect a spinal injury — unless in immediate danger (fire, water).
If There Is No Breathing — Basic CPR
- 30 chest compressions — hard and fast, centre of chest, 5–6 cm depth
- 2 rescue breaths — tilt head back, lift chin, seal lips, blow until chest rises
- Repeat 30:2 until help arrives or the person recovers
- Use an AED (defibrillator) if available — they are in many public places in Sweden
What Not to Do
- Do not give food or drink to an injured person
- Do not remove a helmet from a motorcyclist unless the airway is blocked
- Do not move a casualty with a possible spinal injury
- Do not leave the scene without reporting to police if persons are injured or property damaged
Key Takeaways
- Make the scene safe first — then help casualties
- Call 112 early; stay on the line
- Unconscious + breathing = recovery position
- Not breathing = CPR at 30:2
- Do not move anyone with a possible spinal injury