The dramatic pictures from the Charleville ammonia truck explosion really do reinforce the high risk nature of some motor vehicle accidents. Images of a disintegrated truck, a huge five metre deep crater in the Mitchell Highway and the mangled wreckage of two firefighting vehicles highlight this.

Responding to any motor vehicle accident and providing First Aid always always presents some risks. In the Charleville accident, that risk was extreme. A dangerous mix of 56 tonnes of ammonium nitrate mixed with diesel was enough to flatten two bridges. All up seven responders were injured – four firefighters, a police officer and 2 members of the public that had stopped to render assistance. The ABC reports that the local fire chief described the fact no-one died in the accident as “a miracle”.

In our First Aid courses we always reinforce the critical message of safety first. First Aid safety basics like assessing the scene, identifying hazards, making the scene safe and importantly leaving dangerous situations (particularly those with hazardous materials) to emergency personnel, are all very important. The Charleville accident highlights that sometimes, even the professionals have a hard time managing the risks.

If you would like to read more about some basic First Aid safety concepts, have a read of our Basic First Aid Safety – It Could Save Your Life post – it could really save your life. And if you want to do one better – complete a First Aid course and you may not only save your life but someone else’s as well. Check out our upcoming First Aid course dates in in Port Macquarie, Taree or Nelson Bay and secure your spot in a course today.