In vehicle extrication operations, what is the first step responders should perform?

• A. Size up the incident scene
• B. Stabilize the vehicle
• C. Access the victim
• D. Establish a safety perimeter

Answer: (A)

Initiating a complete scene size-up is the first step in vehicle extrication. When responders arrive, they must quickly assess safety and potential hazards, understand how the crash occurred, estimate the number of patients, and determine the safest approach for extrication. This early assessment identifies risks such as fuel leaks, fire, unstable vehicle position, downed power lines, traffic, or hazardous materials, and it informs how resources should be used and what tools or techniques will be needed.

That information is essential before other actions, because stabilizing the vehicle, accessing the victim, or setting up a safety perimeter all depend on understanding the scene first. Stabilization should be based on the vehicle’s stability and hazards identified during size-up; access planning and perimeter setup follow from the assessed conditions.