Motor vehicle accident tips to help maintain safety

Summer has arrived and the seasonal population influx around Seeley Lake has also arrived. The campgrounds and outdoor activities are much more active as the community grows. The increased movement increases our highway traffic.

Visitors unfamiliar with our scenic roads will not be as attentive toward driving, as people tend to look at surroundings rather than focusing on the road. Motor vehicle accidents happen. Should an accident occur please consider the following:

• Call 911 immediately and emergency crews will respond.

• If you are involved in the accident, please remain in your vehicle if possible and assess for injuries that you or your passengers may have sustained.

• Many times people leave the vehicle and, for example, move to another location for cell service. Please return to the scene as soon as possible as we will not be able to find you as quickly.

• Should you come upon an incident during your travels we ask that you park in a safe location, out of travel lanes, if possible, to render aid. Assure that 911 has been called and count how many people may be injured. If somebody is bleeding and you are able, using a clean cloth apply direct pressure to the open wound and wait for rescuers to arrive.

• If you are driving and see emergency vehicles approaching with warning devices (red lights, siren) activated, please safely maneuver your vehicle to the right shoulder of the road and come to a complete stop. Emergency crews will need room to safely continue to the incident. Please use extreme caution when approaching or passing an accident. Crews will need as much support as possible in providing safety to everybody on scene.

Many may take note that the Seeley Lake Fire Department is very active supporting our community. When not responding to 911 emergencies we show our pride by participating in the many community events throughout the year. Events such as the Annual Pancake Breakfast on July 4th..There are many personal reasons for becoming a fire department volunteer, please come talk to us to hear of the many benefits that that we offer our members. If you have the time, we have the place for you!

Thank you for reading!