What is the first step when arriving at the scene of an emergency?

The first step when arriving at the scene of an emergency is to ensure scene safety and assess for hazards. This is a critical action for any emergency responder, as it is necessary to protect both the patients and the responders themselves from potential dangers. Before providing aid, it is essential to evaluate the environment for any threats such as traffic, fire, toxic substances, or unstable structures.

By prioritizing scene safety, responders can make informed decisions about how to approach the situation and what protocols to follow to mitigate risks. Once safety is established and any immediate hazards are addressed, responders can then proceed to assess the patient, call for additional resources if needed, or conduct a visual evaluation of the scene, all of which rely on having a secure environment to operate in. This sequence helps to ensure efficient and effective emergency care.