What safety measure should EMTs take when approaching potentially hazardous situations?

Conducting a scene size-up before proceeding is a crucial safety measure for EMTs when approaching potentially hazardous situations. This process involves evaluating the environment to assess potential risks to both the responders and patients. During the size-up, EMTs look for hazards such as fire, traffic, unstable structures, or any other dangers that could compromise safety.

This initial evaluation allows EMTs to form a strategy for safely approaching the scene and ensures they are aware of any necessary precautions or protective equipment they might need to use. It also helps in determining whether additional resources, such as law enforcement or hazardous materials teams, are required. By prioritizing safety through proper scene assessment, EMTs can minimize the risk of injury to themselves and others while effectively managing patient care.