What to do if you witness a plane crash?

Witnessing a Plane Crash: Your Crucial First Steps

The sight of a plane crash is a traumatic event, but immediate, calm action can be life-saving. Your response in the critical moments following the accident can significantly impact rescue efforts and the investigation. Here’s a breakdown of what to do:

1. Prioritize Safety: Your Well-being First

Before anything else, ensure your own safety and the safety of those around you. If you’re in immediate danger – from fire, debris, or unstable wreckage – prioritize evacuating the area. Distance yourself from the crash site and move to a safe location, upwind if there’s smoke or fire. Only approach if instructed to do so by emergency personnel.

2. Summon Emergency Services: Immediate Notification

This is the single most important step. Dial your local emergency number (911 in the United States, 999 in the UK, etc.) Provide the following information clearly and concisely:

• Location: Be as precise as possible. Include street names, landmarks, and GPS coordinates if available.
• Type of Incident: Clearly state that you’ve witnessed a plane crash.
• Number of People Involved (if known): Any information you can gather about the number of passengers and crew will be invaluable.
• Visible Injuries: Briefly describe the apparent severity of any visible injuries.
• Potential Hazards: Mention any hazards present at the scene, such as fire, leaking fuel, or hazardous materials.

3. Alert Aviation Authorities: The Investigation Begins

While emergency services focus on immediate rescue, alerting aviation authorities is crucial for the subsequent investigation. In the US, this means contacting the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Other countries have their own equivalent agencies. While you may not have specific contact details immediately available, online searches for “[Your Country] aviation accident reporting” will quickly provide the necessary information. Even if you only leave a message, it is essential to make the report.

4. Secure the Perimeter (If Possible and Safe):

If you can do so without putting yourself at risk, attempt to deter unauthorized access to the crash site. This prevents potential tampering with evidence and ensures the safety and integrity of the investigation. Clearly communicating the need to keep the area clear to bystanders is vital, but prioritize your own safety above all else. Do not confront anyone attempting unauthorized entry. Simply inform emergency services and await their arrival.

5. Documentation: Observe and Record (But Don’t Interfere)

Once you’re safe, consider discreetly taking notes on what you observed. Note the time, location, type of aircraft (if identifiable), and any other relevant details that come to mind. Photos and videos can be helpful, but only take them if it doesn’t compromise your safety or the safety of others. Avoid touching or disturbing anything at the crash site. Your observations are crucial for investigators, but your safety is paramount.

6. Offer Assistance (Only if Trained and Safe):

If you possess specific first aid or emergency response training, and you can safely and effectively assist those injured, do so. However, never attempt to move severely injured individuals unless absolutely necessary to prevent further harm. Your primary role is to alert emergency services and secure the perimeter – not to undertake complex medical procedures.

Witnessing a plane crash is undoubtedly a harrowing experience. By following these steps calmly and efficiently, you can contribute significantly to the rescue efforts and the subsequent investigation, maximizing the chances of saving lives and uncovering the cause of the accident. Remember, your safety comes first.