I've mentioned this concept in a couple of threads so here is an explanation of the scheme. Biker Down I've developed a new strategy on behalf of Kent Fire & Rescue Service which we would like to see rolled out to bikers across Kent. Based around the First Aid requirements of an injured motorcyclist, this FREE course is divided into 3 Modules and lasts approximately 3 hours Many bikers ride in groups or pairs and it is often the case that when one is involved in an accident the first person in attendance will often be a fellow biker, the care of a downed rider is uppermost in rider’s minds and many clubs and groups often discuss the need for the training of riders in how to deal with a crashed biker. Injured motorcyclists need to be dealt with in a specific manner by a First Aider due to the mechanics of the type of injuries possibly incurred and the sensitive issue surrounding helmet removal from injured bikers. The course is conducted at Ashford Fire Station, titled ‘Biker Down’, it is essentially a ‘First Aid for Bikers Course’, but includes three modules: 1. INCIDENT SCENE MANAGEMENT A presentation from a Fire Bike Team member, on scene management and personal safety for a biker happening upon an RTC involving a motorcyclist, this covers the individuals initial considerations including their own DRA to assess the most appropriate action to take in order to protect themselves and other road users at the scene, an order of actions and instruction on management of resources available (i.e. other witnesses). Information they should gather to assist attending Emergency Service Personnel and possible legal obligations. 2. CASUALTY CARE This module is delivered by our Kent Fire & Rescue Service Life Support Instructors and covers: Trauma and mechanism of injury, Snatch rescues, why when and how, basic life support, CPR, managing spinal injuries and crash helmet removal, when and how. 3. THE SCIENCE OF BEING SEEN During this session the attendees receive instruction and advice on conspicuity, how effective is Hi – Viz, looking at the use of conspicuity clothing and Hi-Viz aids. Within in this talk phenomena such as Motion Camouflage and Looming are discussed as well as tips on what you can do to be seen without necessarily the need for covering yourself head to foot in luminous yellow! This module is delivered by Kevin Williams of Survival Skills Motorcycle Training who is an Advanced Instructor and widely experienced as both an Author of several Motorcycling Books and as a lead rider, regularly leading parties of bikers both in this country and abroad. The course is on offer to any large biking communities, clubs and organisations as well as individuals. Clubs need to get an accurate prediction of numbers who will guarantee attendance and we will dedicate an event to their club, individuals are required to e-mail their interest and they will then be contacted as soon as the next event becomes available however once a booking is agreed we would ask that it is honoured as the spaces on the courses are much sought after and non-attendance means someone else will have missed out. Further information can be found on our Kent Fire Bike Facebook page, just search for ‘Kent Fire Bike’ there is now also a National Biker Down page which will put you in touch with a Biker Down Course near you, search for Biker Down UK or you can e-mail me direct at [email protected] Jim Sanderson Crew Manager, Fire Bike Team, Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
