Revealed: Spain’s three-letter-life-saver that every tourist and ex-pat needs to know during the summer.
Credit: Anthony Maw, Unsplash
Spanish emergency method could stop a disaster in its tracks by summer 2025
It’s short, Spanish, and could save a life—whether you’re You can either be cruising along the Costa del Sol or have an accident while driving in the city centre.
This summer, Spanish police have issued a fresh warning to tourists, expats, and residents alike: learn PAS—and don’t Just stand there and do something useful
The PAS method – Proteger, Alertar, Socorrer – is Spain’s Official emergency response systems. In English, it would translate to something along the lines of PAA – “Protect Alert Aid” You can also read about it here let’s Be honest it’s The details are not very rich. It’s More of a slogan than a plan of action.
So, what does it mean—and what should You can also find out more about us on our website. When should you do something? it’s Time for action.
Step 1: Proteger – protect the scene
First rule? Don’t Become casualty number 2.
You can also find out more about the following: ‘You can also find out more about P‘ in PAS stands for Proteger – Protect. It means you must first make sure the scene is safe before you can help.
If it’s a shunt on the A-7 Autovía del Mediterráneo or a fallen scaffold in a sleepy plaza, pull over somewhere safe, flick on your hazard lights, and place the red emergency triangles or V-16 light on.
‘GBad intentions can result in tragedy. warn the Policía Nacional.
They’ve I’ve got a good point. Every summer, would-be heroes end up in hospital—or worse—because they rushed in and ignored basic danger signs like oncoming traffic or exposed electrical wires.
So before you leap into action, remember D = Danger – check the area. No, There’s no point in saving someone from an accident if you end up being mowed down by a truck doing 120.
Step 2: Alert – dial 112 and don’t hang up
Once the area’s secure, it’s Call 112 to notify emergency services. Spain’s One number to call for all emergency services, including police, fire and ambulance.
You’ll You will need:
- If possible, use GPS or km markers to find the exact location.
- What happened – crash, fall, explosion?
- Number of injured
- Any ongoing danger – like leaking fuel, fire, or a blocked motorway
You can also read about how to get in touch with us. don’t hang up! Stay with Us Stay on the line and wait for the operator to tell you it’s Okay, let’s go.
Even the most experienced Spanish speakers confess that they can get a little jittery when under pressure. But calm, clear info saves lives. If you struggle, switch to English—they’re How to deal with international callers
Step 3: Aid – help (but don’t Make it worse
Here comes the ‘S‘ – Socorrer – help. But don’t overstep your limits.
Check the response of the victim if they are unconscious.
- Do they breathe?
- Does the animal respond to being spoken to or being touched?
That’s Your response and airways Cover. If they’re If they are breathing but unconscious, put them in recovery position to stop choking.
The following is a list of the most effective ways to improve your chances. they’re not breathing, move to Breathing and Circulation—that’s You can perform CPR if you are familiar with the technique. The following is a list of the most effective ways to improve your chances. You can also find out more about us on our website. don’t, don’t guess. Wait for trained help.
What you do is up to you don’t Move them only if there is a danger of fire or flooding Yours truly necessary. Spinal injuries are sneaky—and serious.
You’re No need to pretend to be a doctor You’re There to keep them safe and stable until Professionals are on the way.
PAA vs DR ABC
PAA (PAS), a good starting point but compared with the DR ABC System, it’s a bit vague.
PAS (Spanish) (English Translation: PAA
P = Proteger
A = Alertar
A = Aid
DR ABC (UK)
D = Danger – Check for risks
R = Response – Check if they’re alert
A = Airway – Make sure it’s Open up your eyes and see the world around you.
B = Breathing – Look, listen, feel
C = Circulation – CPR if needed
One tells you What are the alternatives to using to do. Tell the other. How to get started to do it. PAS might be all you legally need in Spain—but DR ABC might be what You can save the life of a person in front of yourself.
Why Foreigners need to take the PAS test
You can also find out more about this by clicking here. isn’t just advice—it’s Spanish law. The law of Spain. Spanish Penal CodeIn the event of an emergency, you should always assist.
You can also read about it here it’s It’s not just about checking the boxes. It’s about being prepared.
If you’re a full-time expat or here for a week on the beach, knowing Protect, Alert, Aid—and ideally, DR ABC too—makes you more than just a witness. It can make you a person who can You can save a person’s life.
Remember this the next time you witness a traffic accident on the AP-7 highway, a fireworks mishap in a feria or a collapsed tourist under the hot sun.
Protect. Alert. Aid.
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