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                               FRACTURED BACK
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  A fractured spine is always classed as a serious injury, necessitating
  the greatest care in handling because it may be complicated by damage
  to the spinal cord. Injury can result from both direct and indirect
  force. Impact from vehicle collisions and from heavy objects falling
  across the casualty's back, or a severe jarring of the spine caused by
  falling onto the feet, buttocks or head.

  "Whiplash" results from the violent backward movement of a person's 
  head which commonly occurs when a vehicle is run into from behind. With
  this type of injury, there may be severe ligament, muscular or nerve 
  damage or, occasionally, the neck may be broken.

  The two most vulnerable areas of the spinal column are the bones in the
  neck and the lower back.

  For A Fractured Back
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  1: Advise casualty not to move.

  2: If removal to hospital is imminent, do not move the casualty, but
     steady the head by hand; if bystanders are available, they can
     support the feet. Place rolled up clothing against the trunk to 
     support the casualty. Cover with a blanket and await arrival of 
     professional help.

  3: If removal to hospital will be delayed, support the casualty's
     shoulders and pelvis and carefully place soft padding between the 
     lower limbs. Tie a figure of eight bandage around the ankles and 
     feet and broad bandages around the thighs and knees.

  4: Remove to the hospital. Transport the casualty on a rigid stretcher
     in the position found maintaining an open airway throughout. 
 

  For A Fractured Neck
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  1: Advise the casualty not to move. Support the head and neck until
     skilled help arrives.

  2: If removal to the hospital will be delayed, loosen clothing around
     the neck and fit a neck collar ( as shown Next Page ).

  3: Cover the casualty with a blanket and await the arrival of the 
     Ambulance Services.

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