The removal of a sick or injured person either from the site of an accident or ashore is a matter of importance, since his life may depend on the arrangements made, particularly if he has spinal injuries, a heart condition, or a severe fracture, with any of which he is likely to be suffering from shock.

Unless there is danger from fire, explosion, or toxic substances, do not move a casualty until suspected fractures have been immobilized and severe bleeding has been stopped.

The method of transport will depend on the situation of the casualty and the nature of the injury.

Ordinary manhandling may be possible, in which case two helpers carry a casualty, with each one using an arm to support the casualty’s back and shoulders and his spare hand to hold the casualty’s thighs.

The fireman’s lift: The helper crouches down and, taking the casualty’s right wrist in his left hand, passes it round the back of his own neck. He then puts his right arm round the casualty’s waist, grasps the right thigh with the right hand, and, with a quick movement, straightens himself, lifting the casualty across his shoulders.

The Neil-Robertson stretcher: This is a good general-purpose stretcher for use on board ship. It is easily carried, gives firm support to the patient, and is particularly useful in narrow spaces, when difficult corners have to be negotiated, or when the patient has to be hoisted.