You are the first ambulance at a two-vehicle collision. What should you do first?

In the context of responding to a two-vehicle collision, the priority is to ensure scene safety. This step is crucial because approaching a scene where there are possible hazards, such as leaking fuel, traffic, or unstable vehicles, can put both responders and victims at greater risk. Ensuring that the area is secure allows for a safe approach and setup of emergency care.

The first action typically involves assessing conditions to protect yourself, your crew, and potential patients from further harm. Once the scene is deemed safe, responders can move on to other critical tasks, such as evaluating the number of injured individuals, determining the mechanism of injury, and requesting additional resources if necessary. Addressing scene safety first is a fundamental principle in emergency management, as it lays the foundation for effective patient care and operations thereafter.