What should be your first response when you arrive at a scene of an emergency?

Assessing the safety of the scene is the first critical step when arriving at an emergency situation. This involves evaluating any potential hazards that could pose a risk to both the rescuer and the victim. Ensuring safety helps to prevent further injuries and allows you to assist effectively without becoming another victim yourself.

By assessing the scene, you can identify factors such as oncoming traffic, unstable structures, or hazardous materials that may require immediate attention or a change in strategy, such as moving the victim only if it is safe to do so. Additionally, recognizing the safety of the environment allows you to secure the area, call for additional help if needed, and prepare for the next steps in care, such as initiating CPR or other emergency responses, depending on the victim's condition. This foundational assessment is essential to ensuring a safer and more effective emergency response.