We all wonder how we would react in an emergency and hope we would risk our lives to save someone in danger. The qualities of a first responder can mean the difference between survival and death for those in need of help or rescue.
These days there are a large number of FPOS training courses available which equip someone with the knowledge to respond to a variety of emergency situations. But apart from training, there are a number of personal traits and qualities that a first responder should have to assist effectively in an emergency:
Communication
Being able to communicate with a victim and reassure them, in a high pressure situation, is a very important part of a first responder’s role. Calming and motivating a victim can increase their chance of survival and reduce the risk of heart or organ failure. Communication is also important for verbalising the situation and injuries to the emergency services in person or over the phone.
Empathy
Being able to put yourself in the mind-set of a victim is a useful trait as it helps the responder understand that person’s perspective and to frame events positively.
Fitness
A range of emergencies take place in remote or awkward locations. So having someone who is physically fit enough to get to the victim, get them out of a situation or get to the emergency services, is important.
Initiative
In a complex emergency scenario it takes initiative to assess the situation and quickly come up with a plan. For example, if the victim is trapped under an object in a remote scene, you will want someone there who can quickly establish a plan of action that leads to successful rescue.
Positivity
A person who believes that there can be a positive outcome, no matter hurdles lie ahead, is far more likely to come to a person’s aid in what looks like a dire situation. These types of people also have a strong belief in their ability to tackle challenges and beat the odds.
Selfless
It is hard to know for sure who will step up and who will freeze in a crisis. When a large crowd forms around a scene, it’s less likely that an individual will step up. It’s easier to walk by and think “someone else will help”. It takes selflessness to be that person that blocks out potential possibility of injury or material loss and still steps in to help.
Vigilance
A first responder must be able to quickly assess the situation and establish the potential risks to themselves and the victim. For example, if at any time the risk from a hazard poses significant danger, they should consider whether approaching the victim is the best course of action.
Of course this list is not exhaustive and there are a number of other traits that would be useful to a first person on the scene. Find out more about our First Person On The Scene FPOS training courses or visit our Equipment Shop to view a range of first aid items.