General assessment of the situation

Once it has been established that there is no immediate threat to life there will be time to take stock of the situation. Reassurance and quick and effective attention to injuries and compassionate treatment of the injured person will alleviate his condition.
Remember:
- a calm and systematic approach should be adopted;
- give nothing by mouth;
- protect the casualty from heat or cold, remembering that in the tropics open steel decks can be very hot;
- never underestimate and do not treat as minor injuries:

• unconsciousness
• suspected internal bleeding
• stab or puncture wounds
• wounds near joints (see fractures);
• possible fractures
• eye injuries