A recent incident in Singapore highlights the importance of being gracious on the road.
Screenshot taken from https://mothership.sg/2023/03/biker-injured-kind-passerby/
According to Mothership.sg, a motorcyclist was injured and stranded on the side of the road after his bike broke down.
Luckily, a stranger passing by stopped to offer help and even administered first aid to the injured biker until paramedics arrived. This act of kindness not only saved the biker's life but also serves as a reminder of the importance of being gracious towards other road users to promote safety. In this article, we will explore the importance of being gracious on the road and provide first aid and safety tips for Singaporeans.
Why Being Gracious on the Road is Important:
Promotes Road Safety: Being gracious on the road promotes safety for all road users. When drivers are considerate towards others, they are more likely to follow traffic rules, make safe driving decisions and avoid accidents.
Reduces Stress: Road rage is a common issue on the roads in Singapore, and it can lead to accidents and injuries. By being gracious towards other road users, drivers can reduce stress levels and promote a more positive driving environment.
Builds Positive Relationships: Showing kindness and respect towards other road users can help build positive relationships between drivers and pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.
First Aid Tips:
Call for Help: In case of an emergency, call 995 for an ambulance, 999 for the police, and 1777 for non-emergency ambulance.
Stay Calm: During an emergency, it is essential to remain calm and composed. This will help you think clearly and take appropriate actions.
Check for Danger: Before approaching a casualty, ensure that the scene is safe for you and others.
Check for Responsiveness: Check if the casualty is responsive by calling out or tapping their shoulders gently.
Perform CPR: If the casualty is not breathing, perform CPR immediately. Compression-only CPR (hands-only CPR) can be performed by pushing hard and fast on the chest.
Control Bleeding: If the casualty is bleeding heavily, apply pressure to the wound with a sterile dressing or clean cloth.
Provide Comfort: Even if you are unable to provide medical aid, stay with the casualty and offer comfort and reassurance until help arrives.
Safety Tips:
Wear Protective Gear: When riding a motorcycle, wearing protective gear such as helmets, gloves, and boots can significantly reduce the risk of injuries in case of an accident.
Obey Traffic Rules: Always follow traffic rules and signals and avoid speeding or reckless driving.
Stay Visible: Wear brightly colored clothing or install reflective tape on your motorcycle to make yourself more visible to other drivers.
Stay Focused: Avoid distractions such as mobile phones, music players, or eating while driving.
Check Your Vehicle: Regularly check your motorcycle or vehicle for any signs of wear and tear and maintain it in good condition.
Stay Hydrated: When driving in hot weather, drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Stay Informed: Stay updated on road conditions and weather forecasts, and plan your route accordingly.
Being gracious on the road is crucial for everyone's safety. By showing kindness, respect, and consideration towards other road users, we can prevent accidents, reduce stress levels, and build positive relationships. Remember to equip yourself with basic first aid skills and safety knowledge, and stay vigilant while on the road.
References:
"Biker injured after bike breaks down along PIE, saved by kind passerby" (Mothership.sg) - https://mothership.sg/2023/03/biker-injured-kind-passerby/
"Road Safety Tips" (Traffic Police Singapore) - https://www.police.gov.sg/Advisories/Road-Safety-Tips
"First Aid Tips" (Singapore Red Cross) - https://www.redcross.sg/get-help/how-to-be-prepared-for-an-emergency/first-aid-tips.html
"Performing CPR" (Singapore Heart Foundation) - https://www.myheart.org.sg/learn-about-heart-disease/cardiopulmonary-resuscitation-cpr/
"Protective Gear for Motorcyclists" (Singapore Road Safety Council) - https://www.srsconline.sg/safe-riding/protective-gear-for-motorcyclists/
"Staying Hydrated While Driving" (National Safety Council) - https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatigued-driving/staying-hydrated-while-driving
"10 Tips for Safe and Defensive Driving" (AIG Singapore) - https://www.aig.sg/personal/auto/car-insurance-resources/10-tips-for-safe-driving