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DEPP

Devon Emergency Planning Partnership

Transport accidents

Emergencies like car, bus, air, or train crashes or collisions, can happen because of bad weather, driver error, or technical problems. These incidents can cause travel delays, injuries including the risk to life, and damage to vehicles and property.

Who is most at risk?

Fire can affect anyone, but some people face a higher risk of being impacted by fire.

Those most at risk include older adults, those who live alone, people who smoke at home and people with physical mobility issues.

Remember: Always keep yourself safe, when trying to help other people during an incident or accident. Contact the emergency services if help is needed.

What you can do before, during and after

Before

Plan ahead. Travel safely.

  • Be aware of travel conditions before leaving on any journey.
  • Make sure your vehicle is insured and kept in good condition with adequate tyre treads and pressures.
  • Keep emergency contacts on hand, for example phone numbers for breakdown services, or family members.
  • Plan ahead for your trips and allow extra time for possible delays.
  • Learn the emergency procedures for public transport.
  • Carry a small, basic first aid kit with you, or in your vehicle.

During

Stay safe. Follow emergency advice.

  • If you’re involved in or see an accident, check for injuries (to yourself and other people) and call the emergency services on 999.
  • Stay calm and follow any instructions from the emergency services.
  • Don’t move injured people unless they are still in danger – moving them may make their injuries worse.
  • Stay clear of the accident area if possible, so emergency services can do their job.
  • If you’re driving, use your hazard lights or hand signals to alert other drivers of an accident or hazard.

After

Seek support. Report the incident.

  • Get medical help for injuries even if they only appear to be minor.
  • Report the accident to the authorities and provide any additional details they ask for.
  • Adjust your travel plans to avoid the affected areas if the accident or incident is still ongoing.
  • Contact your insurance company and start a claim for damage to your vehicle or your personal items, if necessary.

In an emergency

Call 999 immediately
Get out, stay out

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