Effective techniques for clearing an adult’s airway
10/06/2024
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10/06/2024Following a road accident, every second counts, especially when the victim is wearing a helmet. Knowing how to properly remove a motorcycle or bicycle helmet can be crucial and save lives. This article explores best practices and precautions when removing a helmet in an emergency situation—an essential skill for first responders as well as bystanders at the scene of an accident.
Context and importance of safe helmet removal
During an accident involving a cyclist or motorcyclist, the helmet must be removed carefully to avoid aggravating any cervical injuries or head trauma. Improper removal can cause irreversible damage to the spine. It is crucial to know the appropriate techniques: stabilise the head and neck, involve two people if possible, and remove the helmet slowly while maintaining cervical spine alignment. Only proper training ensures a safe intervention.
Assessing the situation and preparing
Before intervening, it is essential to assess scene safety to avoid exposing the victim and first aiders to further dangers, such as traffic, fire or electrical cables. Once the area is secure, check the victim’s level of consciousness by speaking to them and gently stimulating them. If the victim is conscious, clearly explain your intentions before acting to reassure them and reduce stress. This encourages cooperation and prevents sudden movements that could worsen their injuries.
Techniques for safe helmet removal
A helmet must be removed with extreme caution to avoid aggravating any cervical injuries. Ideally, this procedure should be performed by two trained people.
- Stabilising the head and neck:
- The first person positions themselves behind the victim’s head and firmly stabilises the head and neck by placing their hands on either side of the helmet. They maintain cervical spine alignment throughout the procedure.
- Releasing the chin strap:
- The second person carefully undoes the chin strap or cuts it if it is difficult to remove, freeing the helmet without creating additional tension.
- Gradual helmet removal:
- Working in perfect coordination, the second person grasps the sides of the helmet and removes it slowly, moving it backwards and then upwards.
- The person at the head adjusts their grip to continue supporting the head as soon as the helmet begins to come off.
- Maintaining cervical stabilisation:
- Once the helmet has been removed, the head must remain still. Use lateral supports, such as cushions or rolled-up fabric, to keep the head aligned until help arrives.
⚠️ If you are not trained, remove the helmet only if the victim is not breathing and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is required.
Precautions and contraindications
There are situations in which the helmet should not be removed immediately. If the victim shows signs of respiratory distress or removing the helmet appears likely to cause more harm, it is preferable to wait for professional medical services to arrive. First aiders should also be alert to the possibility of cervical fractures and avoid any movement that could worsen such injuries.
Further guidance and training
Although this article provides an introduction to helmet removal protocols, it is essential to complete official training. These techniques are an integral part of the training programme for the IAS 1 course and IAS 2, but are not included in the BLS-AED-SRC training programme. For those who frequently witness road accidents, such as cyclists and motorcyclists themselves, training is strongly recommended so that they can intervene effectively when needed.
To develop these skills further, explore our specialised training courses:
