Firefighters share life‑saving skills with local bikers
The free Biker Down courses provide CPR skills and safety advice for riders
Motorcyclists are being urged to take extra care on the roads as warmer weather and lighter evenings are expected to bring an increase in riders — and a rise in serious collisions.
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service says motorcycles remain among the most vulnerable road users, with national figures showing an average of six motorcyclists die every week on UK roads and more than 100 are seriously injured.
Emergency services say incidents involving bikers often increase during spring and summer, particularly at weekends, when more people take advantage of improved weather conditions.
Darren Carson, a prevention team leader at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said motorcyclists frequently come across collisions involving other riders before emergency crews arrive.
“Motorcyclists are more exposed than other road users, and it’s not uncommon for fellow riders or passing motorists to be first on the scene,” he said.
“The actions taken in those first few minutes can have a significant impact.”
He said this was especially important on rural roads, which are common across Northamptonshire and can make it difficult for emergency services to quickly locate an incident without accurate information.
‘'Riders are often first on the scene’'
As part of efforts to improve safety, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service works alongside police to deliver Biker Down sessions – a national initiative aimed at giving motorcyclists practical skills for real‑world situations.
Riders are taught vital safety skills such as basic first aid and CPR, how to deal with a crash scene safely, and what information emergency services need.
Courses are delivered by fire and police staff who are also motorcyclists themselves, with organisers saying this helps build trust and understanding with those attending.
“The focus isn’t about blame,” Carson said.
“It’s about confidence, awareness and knowing what to do if the worst happens.”
Seasonal risks on the road
Fire and rescue officials say increased traffic, longer daylight hours and more leisure riding can all raise the risk of collisions during the warmer months.
Motorcyclists are encouraged to:
- Ride defensively and anticipate the actions of other road users
- Take extra care on rural and unfamiliar roads
- Wear appropriate protective and high‑visibility clothing
- Ensure someone can quickly share their location in an emergency
Members of the public who encounter a motorcycle crash are also urged not to put themselves at risk and to call 999 as soon as possible.
Carson said: “Personal safety always comes first. Clear location details and accurate information can make a real difference before crews arrive.
“Ultimately, it’s about keeping bikers safe, helping them enjoy their ride, and making sure they get home safely,” he added.
The next BikerDown session is taking place on Saturday, 25 April, from 9:30am to 12:30pm, at Northamptonshire Police Headquarters, Wootton Hall, NN4 0JQ.
Further sessions are planned later in the year. Places are free and can be booked online via Eventbrite
To find out more about road safety visitwww.northantsfire.gov.uk