The Road Safety Druid

It's not often you'll see the words 'road', 'safety' and 'druid' in the same line, so let's take just a few moments to treasure this rare time.

Yes, the Australian Road Safety Druid has made the headlines!

http://www.metro.co.uk/weird/827498-druids-use-rock-and-magnets-to-stop-road-accidents

As well as using quartz standing stones to restore the area’s ‘natural energy’, the druids have come up with a cheaper modern-day option – burying plastic slates with magnets in the ground.

Arch druid Ilmar Tessmann was called in as a last resort after a high number of fatal accidents were reported on a straight stretch of motorway near Salzburg.

He said the crashes were caused by radiation from a nearby mobile phone mast disrupting the area’s normal ‘terrestrial’ radiation.

Installing the monoliths has successfully counteracted that, he claimed.

Austrian motorway authority ASFINAG said it was sceptical at first and kept the project a secret. But it went public after the druids’ efforts cut the number of deaths at the notorious crash site from six a year to zero in two years.

Mr Tessmann said: ‘Plastic was not available in ancient times but it seems to work well.’

But he warned: ‘It is a big job. These masts are now spreading negative radiation over 120 to 200 miles.’

Scientists, however, are not convinced.

‘Natural sciences need evidence. ‘Whatever can’t be measured, does not exist,’ Dr Georg Walach from the geophysics department at Leoben University in southern Austria said.

‘These energy lines and their flow cannot be grasped or measured therefore their existence is rejected by scientists.’

But Mr Tessmann claims the proof is in the results. ‘If you ask me to give you a scientific explanation, I can’t, I just know it works, and even critics can’t argue with our success rate,’ he said.


A road safety expert I know suggests that any reduction may be due to 'regression to the mean'. Aother road safety person commented that some road safety speed camera partnerships claim that installing cameras - which look strangely like grey stone monoliths - often achieve a reduction in accidents.

Perhaps the colour is what's important . . . ? ;)



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Multi-Storey Car Park

Ever wondered who designed the multi-story car park?

Nope, neither had I :)

Until I happened across Popular Science magazaine, for April 1921 (I'm spending some time catching on reading - there's a bit of a backlog).

We're told that Fernand E. d'Humy has patented a throughly practical plan.

The key elements are that "The floors and ceilings are not on a line, for the floor of one corresponds with a point midway between the floor and ceiling of the other. Thus an inclined passage . . . leads only half a storey at a step."



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X-Prize

The X-Prize is a competition currently underway in the USA. Its goal is to inspire a new generation of viable, safe, affordable and super fuel efficient vehicles that people want to buy.

http://www.progressiveautoxprize.org/

$10 million in prizes will be awarded in September 2010 to the teams that win a rigorous stage competition for clean, production-capable vehicles that exceed 100 MPG energy equivalent (MPGe). We are proud to announce that the on-track Competition Phase will be hosted at Michigan International Speedway.

40 teams, from 11 coutries, have entered, although some have already fallen by the wayside.

One team is Swiss, with electric versions of the Monotracer, the newer descendant of the Ecomobile, both built by Peraves.



Monotracer (note: automatically retracting/deploying stabilisers)



Monotracer site

Ecomobile (after the ad.)





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The Eyes Have It - Improve Your Observation

If you take 'advanced' training, it’s quite usual to be told that “You must improve your observation”.

The following system (the ‘Smith, Cummings, Sherman visual road search system’) ,with an addtion, will provide some simple, but effective strategies for doing so:

1. AIM HIGH IN STEERING
• "Look where you're going - go where you look."
• Look as far around an approaching corner as possible, you will tend to steer to that point. Look well ahead, check the road surface while it is still in the distance. Motorcyclists tend to spend much of their time looking at the road surface - and not looking for other hazards, especially near junctions.

So...
2. KEEP YOUR EYES MOVING
• Your eyes are the most efficient method you have for gathering information. Keep looking around - avoid becoming fixated on one hazard.

How else can you be aware of what is happening around you?
3. GET THE BIG PICTURE
• Make full use of your peripheral vision.
• Try this exercise: Look at object in centre of wall. While still looking at the object, be aware of everything else on wall.

Other people can cause problems, so...
4. MAKE OTHERS SEE YOU - SEE AND BE SEEN
• Use conspicuity aids, lights, signals, and horn when necessary - but be aware that they may not be noticed - or could be ignored! Use road positioning to your advantage - move out from behind obstacles. Reduce your speed. If in doubt, brake.
• Move through the other driver's field of view, moving objects attract attention – move across the lane width. Look for eye contact.

But if the worst happens...
5. ALWAYS LOOK FOR AN 'OUT'
• Look for an escape route - BEFORE you need it.

6. BE 'LEVEL-HEADED'
• When cornering, keep your eyes level, parallel to the ground. This will help to avoid disorientation.

Extra Points to consider:
• When approaching a hazard try to reduce the amount you have to concentrate on. For example, if a car is about to emerge from a side turning it is unwise to use a lot of your concentration on the road surface - it isn't going to change!
• Slow down! Half the speed gives you twice the amount of thinking time and reduces your braking distance by three-quarters. Reducing your speed by just 10mph will reduce your braking distance by half.
• Cover the brakes. This will reduce your reaction time and help avoid a tendency to 'grab' rather than apply the brakes.


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NLP - Neuro Linguistic Programming

Earlier this year I attended a one day introduction to NLP - Neuro Linguistic Programming - held at newbury College.

For anyone involved in education, whether formal (teachers, lecturers, trainers etc.) or voluntary (such as IAM Observers, RoSPA Tutors) it's a fascinating insight into how training can be acheived in ways other than 'chalk and talk'.

That's not to say that NLP is just about training or coaching (although the day included an good example of how coaching can be achieved without actually discussing 'technique'. It's actually far more, and I couldn't do justice to the day in just a few sentences.

Thoroughly recommended!

More details here:

http://www.newbury-college.ac.uk/courses/course/courseid/109596/discover-nlp/


Newbury College is less than two hours drive from a fair chunk of central and southern England. I don't know if other colleges run similar sessions; if not, this would be a reasonable trip and well worth the effort.



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Card Models

Getting bored at home in the evenings?

Perhaps not!

A conversation at work reminded me of an aquaintance who moved back to the USA several years ago.

He makes his living from designing and retailing card models, particularly of aircraft and buildings.

Have a look here: https://www.fiddlersgreen.net/

There are loads there - including one based on a building I walk past most days while out with the dogs.

So if you are getting bored, start card modelling empire-building, with your own village or airfield.


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Police Camper Action!

You gotta love it when a plan comes together - or whatever it was the bloke with the cigar used to say. But you have to grin when it doesn't, quite, go to plan . . .

With a top speed of just 80 mph it is more likely to cause traffic jams than strike fear into the hearts of Birmingham's hardened criminals.
But this camper van, complete with full West Midlands Police livery, has been deployed on the mean streets of Britain's second city.
Officers complain they are being openly mocked very time they are seen driving the 3.5-tonne motor home.

The five-berth Peugeot Elddis attracted curious glances when it was spotted outside the up-market Mailbox shopping centre in Birmingham this week.
It was responding to a theft at the centre's Armani store and collecting items of evidence and some stolen goods.

The Elddis usually comes complete with tasteful decor that looks more 'Butlins' than 'The Bill'.

However the force insists it is definitely not for sleeping on the job and the beds have been taken out.

Some disgruntled policemen have moaned they are more likely to raise chuckles than feel any collars in the eye-catching but unwieldy vehicle.

A source at West Midlands police said officers driving the camper van face ridicule every time they used it.

He said: 'They get mocked for driving it. When they turn up at a job people just laugh at them.

'It is supposed to be used for community events and shows but we are having to use it for responding to incidents now. No one likes having to drive it.'

The force defended the £17,000 caravan - one of five out of a total fleet of 1,600 vehicles - and stressed it was not used for emergency pursuits.

A spokesman said its extra headroom made it a 'versatile piece of kit' which can be used both for routine operations and as a 'mobile police station' where members of the public can meet officers in the community.

The spokesman said: 'West Midlands Police has an extensive fleet of vehicles, ranging from high performance cars to mobile community police stations.

'All drivers undertake relevant training, appropriate to the vehicles they are required to drive.

'Mobile community police stations such as these are not used to respond to emergency calls for help.

'They may, however, be used where deemed appropriate, by officers for conducting routine enquiries as was the case in this instance.'

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1278342/West-Midlands-Polices-latest-crime-fighting-weapon-motor-caravan.html




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Bus - Roof - Bridge - Observation

BBC News tells us:

The incident led to rail delays of up to 60 minutes between London Paddington and Reading before services resumed just before 2000 BST.

The driver was the only person on board and was not injured.

Police said there was no structural damage to the bridge and the road was reopened after several hours.

Jenny Mulholland, landlady of the nearby Willow Tree pub, said: "I just happened to look out the window and saw a bus with no roof and thought, 'that's a sight you don't see very often'."

Engineers worked at the scene to restore normal rail services.

Why am I posting about it?

Two reasons:

First, the local radio DJ, giving out traffic information, who mentioned - several times - that the impact was having a 'Knock on' effect on train services. Probably could have phrased it better . . .

Second, I was intending a comment on observation - guy forgets (?) he's driving a double-decker bus, 'misses' (now I'm doing it) a low bridge and warning signs.

But the BBC also tell us:

The driver of a double-decker bus which had its roof ripped off when he drove it under a railway bridge has been arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.

The 49-year-old man failed a breath test at the scene after he drove under the bridge in Langley, Slough.



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Motorcycle Crash Scene

Some while back I posted a series of motorcycle security information.
http://the-ride-info.blogspot.com/2009/10/bike-security.html

This time it's what to do at the scene of a bike crash


Crash!

It's likely that, as a road user, you'll either be involved in, witness, or arrive at the scene of, a crash. The Highway Code gives the helpful advice that you should stop if involved in a crash, motorcyclists rarely have a choice . . .

If you are first on the crash scene, remember that the first, and most important, priority is to look after yourself - you're no use if you become another casualty.

You're already carrying a basic first aid kit with you: your brain and hands. A first aid course will give you the basic skills to use them at the crash scene. But having knowledge of basic first aid techniques may could in useful at many other times.

Hopefully, you'll also be carrying a mobile 'phone - the questions you'll be asked are detailed later.

Dealing with a crash scene - assuming you're in a fit state to do anything to help - is, in a way, similar to other hazard management on-road: identify the problems, prioritise, deal with them.

To help you do this, there are two simple reminders: 'ACT', and 'DR.ABC'.

ACT is a prompt list for accident scene management:
A Assess
C Control & Communicate
T Treat

DR.ABC is used as a reminder for first-aiders:
D Danger
R Response
A Airway
B Breathing
C Circulation

Use both to gether to help you deal with a crash scene:

D Danger (Assess)
Remember: You're no help to anyone else if you become a casualty too! So, protect the scene:
Are approaching drivers able to see the crash scene early and stop in time?
Is there any fuel spilt, or other danger of fire?
Switch off vehicle ignition - but don't touch any other switches.

D Danger (Control)
Unless other bystanders are helping, someone (ie you) will need to take control:
Ask other bystanders to warn traffic, give a 'slow down' arm signal, use torches or wave something white (eg carrier bags) at night.
If warning triangles are available, place them 100m from the scene, but don't use them on motorways.

Response (Assess)
How many casualties are there?
Is it possible that any casualties have been thrown from the scene, or wandered off?
Are they conscious?
Are unconscious casualties breathing?
Can you quickly see the extent of severe injuries?
Look for 'Hazchem' ('hazardous chemicals') markings on lorries.


Response (Communicate)
Contact the emergency services. In the UK you can use either '999' or the European '112' numbers. However, if you are on a motorway, it's best to use the emergency phones if you can as they identify your location to the motorway police control staff.

(More details of calling for help later)


ABC (Treat)
It's beyond the scope of The Ride to do more than give you an overview of very basic first techniques, and that overview can be no simpler than:
"Keep them breathing, stop them bleeding"

Remember that you are always carrying a first aid kit with you: Your brain & hands. The difficult part is knowing, and remembering, what to do.

If you suspect broken bones, try to keep the casualty still.

Casualties should not be moved unless in danger.

You can easily carry a few extra items in your pocket, such as disposable gloves and a face shield for rescusitation.

Traditional small (ie bike-underseat-sized) first aid kits should be supplemented with additional, large, wound dressings (a bandage with pad fixed to it) - it's always easy to use a bigger dressing than is needed.

A thorny question is whether or not to remove an unconscious casualty's helmet. The only reason this should be considered is if the casualty is not breathing and rescusitation is needed. Even then, it is important to support the casualty's head and neck as far as is possible when removing the helmet.

If the rider is unconscious but breathing then just support the rider's head to avoid aggravating any neck injury.


Calling the Emergency Services

Having assessed the situation, when you call for help you will talk to an operator, then ambulance controller, and will be asked a number of questions:

The Emergency Operator will ask:
Your phone number and which service you require.

Unless there is a fire, ask for 'ambulance' first, as police are automatically called to road crashes.

You will be asked for details of your location, and the number of casualties
If the call is made by mobile phone then your location can be identified, but it is easier and quicker if you can give an accurate location such as road numbers & place names.

The Ambulance Controller will ask:
- Your exact location (give landmarks if appropriate - including post code if known).
- If you are in an area that you are not familiar with, describe where you have come from and where you are going to, they will try and work the route out from the information you provide.

What has happened ( eg Road traffic Accident):
- Describe what's involved,
- Number and type of vehicles (eg lorry and motorcycle)
- How many casualties,whether patients are concious and breathing or not
- Type of injuries if known and severity.

Is anyone trapped ?
Any other hazards eg fire ?
Is the road blocked
Any other relevant information.

Depending on the situation, the ambulance controller may offer you guidance and instruction on helping the patient(s) involved. eg to prevent further blood loss or CPR instructions. Be aware that you could be the person that saves someones life by doing some basic first aid until the ambulance arrives.

Based on the information you provide - the ambulance controller may decide to send a range of resources, including responder cars, doctors, land ambulances or air ambulance. Stay calm and give as much factual information as possible.

The ambulance may be sent to you within a seconds of the first piece of information being passed. The controller will enter the information onto their system and this is sent immediately to the most appropriate ambulance resource, so don't worry if they continue to talk to you, there will not be a delay - the ambulance will already be on its way.

Crews aim to be with you as quickly as possible - obviously calls are categorised , but they aim to be at the most serious lifethreatening incidents within 8 minutes of the call being made, and aim to attend all other incidents that are not immediately life-threatening within 19 minutes.

If you don't make the call yourself, but ask someone else to do it, ensure they report back to you - particularly with an estimate of how long it will be before help arrives.

During that time, monitor the casualties; in particular look for any changes in their response, colour, etc. If there is any deterioration, keep regular records. Try to keep them warm.

If a casualty is conscious, don't give them anything to eat or drink.

When the emergency services arrive give them a brief description of the casualties and any other information they ask.

When casualties have been taken to hospital, don't forget to look after yourself.

Unfortunately, one of the consequences of a crash is usually paperwork. This can be easier to deal with if you can gather information at the crash scene.

If you have a camera, take pictures showing the scene, damage to vehicles, and any skidmarks etc. (it's worth getting a small disposable camera and carrying it on the bike. Don't forget that many mobile 'phones have built-in cameras);

Get contact details for any other drivers and witnesses: name, address, insurance details if appropriate. (If you have a mobile 'phone, you may wish to check any numbers you're given);

Note the name and number of any police officers attending;

Note down the make, model, and registration numbers of any other vehicles involved.

Draw a map or plan of the scene and any signs, road markings, etc.

Note weather, road, and traffic conditions,

If you are asked by the police to make a statement, you don't have to make one immediately.



Oi, You!
Contact Details
A recent suggestion is to list 'ICE' ('In Case of Emergency') numbers in your mobile phone's directory, which can be used by emergency personnel to contact next of kin.

If you have any medical condition which emergency medical staff would need to know, consider using an 'SOS Talisman' or similar.

As a form of 'insurance', if you're not already then consider becoming a blood donor and bone marrow donor.

Finally, looking on the 'worst case scenario', consider carrying a donor card. If you do, you should discuss your wishes with your next of kin.


Phone Home!
If you're going to be late home, or if a journey is taking longer than expected, phone to let other people know. Otherwise they'll worry.




(C)M Palmer 2010

With thanks to South Central Ambulance for additional information

Bike Safety Web Sites - Help, Please

Now's your chance to tell me what you think.

Err . . . I'd better narrow that down a bit :)

Below, screen shots and links to a pair of bike safety web sites.

If you have a few moments, could you follow both links, and let me know by adding a 'comment' what you think of each?

http://www.maxrider.co.uk/countrymile.htm





http://www.think.norfolk.gov.uk/Motorcyclists/Campaigns/2009-Campaigns/Hugger-Campaign





So there you are; two very different web sites.

I'd really appreciate your comments, even if you usually read the blog through RSS rather than a direct 'visit' to the page.

Go on! Click 'add comment'. Please ;)




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Protective Equipment for Riders

A campaign informing riders and raising their awareness regarding the benefits of a good motorcycling equipment.

Motorcycling apparel can help motorcycle, scooter and moped riders reducing the effects of accidents. Nonetheless the benefits of good quality motorcycling clothing are still widely underestimated.

With the aim of encouraging a wider take-up of protective gear ACEM, the Motorcycle Industry in Europe, has released a booklet in seven languages with indications on which equipment to choose. This brochure has been developed within the eSUM Project ensuing from the cooperation between ACEM and four European motorcycling capitals (London, Paris, Barcelona and Rome). The goal is the identification, practical demonstration and adoption of measures for the safer use of powered two-wheelers in the inner-city traffic.

While much is being done on aspects such as vehicle safety features, training and awareness raising, improvements in road safety can be achieved also by promoting protective motorcycling wear adapted to the type and the use of vehicle.

Most riders use helmets. However moped riders and commuters tend to neglect the benefits of protective equipment in terms of safety and comfort. In Mediterranean countries, for example, due to their warm climates, users are still widely unaware that good apparel can combine comfort and safety.

The goal of this booklet is to provide some simple guidelines supported by scientific evidence to help increasing the number of motorcyclists equipped with appropriate protective clothing. According to evidence gathered by MAIDS*, if involved in an accident, riders wearing appropriate protective gear are likely to reduce injuries. A «Protection Factor» for every piece of garment indicates the percentage of MAIDS accidents, in which the protective gear has mitigated or even better prevented injuries. Knowledge about the benefits of wearing the correct apparel will help users in making the right choice and contribute to their safety.



Leaflet (English): http://www.acem.eu/PPE/html/EN_eSUM_ppe.pdf

More: http://www.acem.eu/cms/ppe.php

Change!

Couldn't help but be amused by my local Conservative MP's election material.

It calls for 'change'.

Ah well, if that's what he wants, Lib Dem David Rendell it will be then . . .



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Training Scrappage

With HM Govt's car 'scrappage' scheme now closed down, I see another 'gap' in teh market: 'Training' scrappage.

No payout from the government, but you get the option of scrapping your own skills and riding off with a new set of skills!

Of course, that relies on there being a suitable supply of new skills . . .

. . . Which, of course, there aren't. What usually happens in a bike crash is that a rider just runs out of their existing skill, they 'over-ride' themselves.

The root problem is usually a lack of forward planning, not just in the traditional sense of 'observation and acinticipation', but in a lack of expectation and preparedness.

In other words, if you're riding up to a blind bend, don't simply 'observe' the bend, identify the limit point - and so the 'correct' speed - you should also expect a problem around the corner (an obstruction, or the bend tightening) and be prepared to take action (have the mental plan ready, know which control actions you'll need - steering, head turn, braking, whatever).


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