To All:

Once the scene is safe and injuries are being assessed, the next critical role is communication.  This role is just as important as first aid.

Assign a Communication Lead
One or two people should take control of communications:
        • Call 911 and communicate with responders
        • Coordinate next steps (including contacting family if needed)
        • The ride leader should call (or assign someone to call) the CVC club president immediately for any accident that is serious.  Multiple calls may be required to get a response.

The person who calls 911 should step slightly away from the scene, away from distractions, take a breath, and focus.  This person may need to leave the area to get a cell signal and/or identify the location of the accident. 

Calling 911: What Matters Most
Be clear and specific. Dispatchers are not familiar with many cycling routes.

Provide:
        • Exact location
                • Address if possible
                • Or nearest cross street
                • Or mile markers or landmarks if cross streets are not relevant
                • If you have cell service open google maps or apple maps app.  Tap your location to obtain a pin which will reveal either an address or latitude and longitude coordinates and read those numbers to the dispatcher. 
        • What happened
                • Cyclist crash, vehicle involvement, etc.
        • How many people are injured
        • Condition of the rider(s)

Avoid vague descriptions like:  “Halfway up Mulholland climb”.

While Waiting for Help
        • Keep the rider still and comfortable
        • Continue to monitor their condition and talk to them
        • Avoid unnecessary movement or crowding
        • Maintain traffic control
        • Look for Road ID or access their “In Case Of Emergency” contact info on their phone.  Follow this link for instructions. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hhaFiDdO7S2eD2saXwtWKge_MJOwkhdAlp8h4iX9rtQ/edit?usp=sharing

Sometimes the most important thing you can do is simply remain calm, present, and reassuring.

When Emergency Services Arrive
Have one spokesperson, most likely the person providing aid:
        • Provide:
                • Name and age (if known)
                • What happened
                • Main injuries
                • Whether they lost consciousness
        • Keep it brief and clear
        • Then step back and give them space to work

If Law Enforcement Is Involved
        • One person should provide a clear, factual account of what happened
        • This can be important for:
                • Insurance
                • Protecting the injured rider
                • Establishing fault if a vehicle was involved

If no one speaks up, key details may be lost.

Key Takeaways
        • Assign one clear communication lead
        • Be precise with location and details
        • Keep information simple and factual
        • Stay calm—this helps everyone

Next: a final summary bringing all steps together.

Ride smart. Ride safe.