Book on road safety released

BANGALORE:  Additional Commissioner of Police (ACP) for Traffic and Security Dr MA Saleem on Thursday requested hospitals around the city to provide free initial assistance to road accident and trauma victims who are brought in by the city police. “The first half hour or one hour is crucial for a trauma victim. The hospitals must provide initial assistance for free. The patient, once stabilised, can be moved out of the hospital. This is our appeal,” he said. Saleem was speaking at the launch of a book containing tips on road safety released in the city by the MG Diagnostics and Imaging Centre. The book was released as part of the Road Safety Week campaign which is being observed by Bangalore Traffic Police between the January 6 and 13. “The city has had very less accidents in 2011 as compared to the last ten years, the public must cooperate however with giving way to ambulances,” Saleem added.Accepting that the city was not pedestrian friendly, Saleem spoke of plans to erect 34 skywalks in the city which will be equipped with escalators.                                  “The places have been identified and the proposal has been made before the BBMP. Hopefully action will be taken soon,” he said.   The book provides important information to public about precautions to be taken while driving and also on purchase of safety accessories like helmets. “It is very important to try helmets before purchasing. Online purchases of safety equipment must not be encouraged,” said Navin Patil, Chief Radiologist.