What does SAFE CAR stand for?
Structure (Context → Action → Result)
Acronym for command and control in road traffic crash scenarios.
What is the first step in the SAFE CAR acronym?
Scene & Setting: First on scene (Alpha appliance). 90 km/h intersection. No police or ambulance. Two vehicles.
What does the ‘A’ in SAFE CAR represent?
Assessment: Quick size-up of the situation, identifying 1 trapped and others with minor injuries. Called for urgent support and recognized hazards.
What are the first priorities in a road traffic crash?
Scene safety, fend-off position, cones and lookout to protect crew and casualties.
What does ‘E’ in SAFE CAR stand for?
Establish control: Took IC role, delegated clear roles, senior FF for extrication, auxiliary crew for casualty point.
What is the importance of communication in SAFE CAR?
Clear updates to FireCom, calm direction to crew, reassurance to casualties, and coordination with agencies.
What does ‘A’ in SAFE CAR refer to?
Action in extrication: Oversaw safe stabilization, directed tool use, guided crew, and stayed calm.
What is the final result expected from using SAFE CAR?
Safe extrication, stable patient hand-over, traffic controlled, and no secondary incidents.
What does CALM HANDS represent?
Leadership Behaviours: Communicated clearly, Assessed dynamically, Led by example, Motivated the team, Held accountability, Applied operational knowledge, Nurtured teamwork, Decided under pressure, Supported your crew.
How should you demonstrate communication in leadership?
Communicated clearly to crew, casualties, dispatch, and agencies.
What does it mean to assess dynamically?
Continuously re-evaluated scene risks.
How can a leader lead by example?
Stayed composed and decisive.
What is the role of motivation in leadership?
Reassured, encouraged focus, and built trust within the team.
What does holding accountability entail?
Ensured safety and task allocation.
How is operational knowledge applied in leadership?
Used training, experience, and rescue techniques.
What does nurturing teamwork involve?
Coordinated Alpha, Kilo, and Auxiliary crews smoothly.
How should decisions be made under pressure?
Prioritized safety, then extrication.
What is the importance of supporting your crew?
Debriefed, praised efforts, and maintained morale.
C – Context & Conflict
Two firefighters with ongoing HR conflict during a swift water deployment. I
was Team Leader responsible for team safety and conduct. Conflict risked
communication and cohesion in a high-pressure setting. Applied QFES Code
of Conduct – respect, integrity, teamwork, accountability.
