Kenya is ranked among the countries with the highest rates of road fatalities in the world. A major reason for this is the fact that though there has been a high level of disregard for traffic rules before introduction of higher penalties for offenders, truth is that when accidents do occur, hardly will there be a competent person to take command of the rescue operation immediately.
As a result, rescues are conducted by people with little knowledge of emergency response, resulting in worsening of injuries and eventual death in some cases. This has been a major push behind the growing importance of PSV first aid training.
Realizing the growing importance of passenger safety, and to build customer confidence in their operations, a number of PSV Saccos in the country have started first aid training for their crews. This ensures that in case of emergencies, the crews are well equipped to handle most conditions before they can get assistance to take victims to the hospital.
Trained drivers and conductors
With good PSV first aid training, operators running the same route are able to offer assistance to their affected colleagues. In other words, should a vehicle belonging to a Sacco get an accident where the driver and conductor gets injured, trained drivers and conductors in vehicles on the same route are able to come in and help out their colleagues, as well as other injured passengers.
One of the companies playing a significant role in fostering this culture of safety through PSV first aid training is Medswift. Medswift has been contracted to train local PSV crews on emergency response procedures, stabilizing injured persons, as well as seeking help from established health institutions to ensure high recovery rates of accident victims.
Passengers have also taken up on ensuring their safety by enquiring whether the crews in the vehicles they are traveling in are effectively trained on emergency safety procedures. Through word of mouth, the road safety revolution is taking shape, and you can play your part by asking your area’s matatu Sacco to have their crew take the Medswift PSV first aid training short courses.