In times of emergency, we often rely on the swift and efficient response of emergency personnel such as firefighters, police officers, and paramedics. However, there is another group of individuals who play a crucial role in these situations but often go unnoticed – the incidentalseventies. These are ordinary citizens who are called upon to assist in emergency situations due to their proximity to the incident. In this blog post, we will explore the role of an incidentalseventy, their qualifications, responsibilities, training, accountability, and the benefits and challenges that come with being one.
Contents
The Role of the Incidentalseventy
An incidentalseventy is someone who is not officially trained or employed as an emergency responder but is called upon to assist in emergency situations. They are often referred to as “good Samaritans” and can be anyone from a passerby to a store clerk or a construction worker. Their role is to provide immediate assistance until professional help arrives.
The term “incidentalseventy” was first used in the 1970s by the United States Coast Guard to describe individuals who were not part of the official rescue team but were able to provide valuable assistance during maritime emergencies. Since then, the term has been adopted by other emergency response organizations and has become a recognized role in emergency situations.
Qualifications of an Incidentalseventy
Unlike professional emergency responders, incidentalseventies do not have any specific qualifications or training. They are simply individuals who happen to be at the right place at the right time and are willing to lend a helping hand. However, certain qualities make someone more suitable for this role.
Firstly, an incidentalseventy should possess a calm and level-headed demeanor. In emergency situations, panic and chaos can easily escalate, and it takes someone with a calm disposition to maintain order and provide assistance.
Secondly, an incidentalseventy should have basic first aid knowledge. While they are not expected to perform complex medical procedures, having a basic understanding of first aid can make a significant difference in emergency situations.
Lastly, an incidentalseventy should be physically able and willing to assist. Emergency situations often require physical strength and stamina, and an incidentalseventy needs to be able to handle the demands of the situation.
Call and Setting Apart of an Incidentalseventy
In most cases, an incidentalseventy is called upon by someone in distress or by an official emergency responder. They may also be identified by their proximity to the incident or by their willingness to help. Once identified, an incidentalseventy is given specific instructions on how they can assist in the situation.
In some cases, an incidentalseventy may also set themselves apart by taking action without being called upon. This could be due to their training or experience in emergency situations or simply because they feel compelled to help. However, an incidentalseventy need to follow the instructions of the official emergency responders to avoid causing further confusion or hindering the rescue efforts.
Responsibilities of an Incidentalseventy
The primary responsibility of an incidentalseventy is to provide immediate assistance until professional help arrives. This could include administering first aid, providing comfort and reassurance to those in distress, directing traffic, or helping with evacuation efforts.
An incidentalseventy may also be responsible for relaying important information to the emergency responders, such as the number of injured individuals, the severity of injuries, and any potential hazards in the area. They may also be asked to assist in crowd control to ensure the safety of both the victims and the emergency responders.
Additionally, an incidentalseventy has a responsibility to prioritize their own safety. They should not put themselves in harm’s way and should follow the instructions of the emergency responders at all times.
Training of an Incidentalseventy
As mentioned earlier, incidentalseventies do not undergo any specific training. However, some organizations offer basic first aid and emergency response training for individuals who are interested in being better prepared to assist in emergency situations.
The American Red Cross, for example, offers a variety of courses such as First Aid/CPR/AED training, Wilderness and Remote First Aid, and Disaster Action Team training. These courses provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond effectively in emergency situations and can be beneficial for incidentalseventies.
Accountability of an Incidentalseventy
While incidentalseventies do not have any official responsibilities or obligations, they are still accountable for their actions during emergency situations. This means that they may be held liable for any harm caused due to their negligence or lack of proper training.
To protect themselves from potential legal issues, incidentalseventies should always prioritize their own safety and follow the instructions of the official emergency responders. They should also refrain from performing any tasks that they are not trained or qualified to do.
Benefits of Being an Incidentalseventy
Being an incidentalseventy comes with its own set of benefits. Firstly, it allows individuals to make a positive impact in emergency situations and potentially save lives. It also provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose, knowing that you were able to help someone in need.
Moreover, being an incidentalseventy can also serve as a learning experience. It exposes individuals to different emergency situations and teaches them valuable skills such as first aid and crisis management. This knowledge can be useful not only in emergency situations but also in everyday life.
Challenges for Incidentalseventies
While being an incidentalseventy can be rewarding, it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main challenges is the lack of training and experience. Without proper training, incidentalseventies may not know how to handle certain situations or may put themselves in danger while trying to assist.
Another challenge is the emotional toll that emergency situations can take on an incidentalseventy. Witnessing traumatic events and dealing with injured individuals can be overwhelming and may have a lasting impact on the individual’s mental well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, incidentalseventies play a crucial role in emergency situations and are often the unsung heroes who provide immediate assistance until professional help arrives. While they do not undergo any specific training or have any official responsibilities, they possess qualities such as calmness, first aid knowledge, and physical ability that make them suitable for this role.
However, it is important to remember that being an incidentalseventy comes with its own set of challenges and potential risks. Individuals need to prioritize their own safety and follow the instructions of the official emergency responders at all times.
If you are interested in becoming an incidentalseventy, consider taking basic first aid and emergency response training courses to better prepare yourself for these situations. Your willingness to help and your actions during an emergency could make a significant difference in someone’s life.