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_MJOwkhdAlp8h4iX9... 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.