When does scene size up officially begin?

Scene size up officially begins when you arrive on scene. This phase involves assessing the environment and situation to ensure safety for yourself, your crew, and any bystanders before engaging with the patient or any potential hazards. Arriving on scene allows you to visually gather critical information about the scene, including the presence of bystanders, the mechanism of injury or illness, and potential dangers such as traffic, fire, or hazardous materials.

Although awareness of the situation begins when you receive the call or during transport, the formal assessment of the scene and the identification of risks and resources truly takes place once you are physically present. This pivotal moment enables you to make informed decisions about patient care, resource allocation, and the overall approach to handling the emergency. Conducting a thorough scene size up can significantly improve the effectiveness of the response and enhance safety.