What should be done before approaching casualties when hazards may be present?

• A. Approach casualties from outside the hazard boundary using basic PPE.
• B. Do not approach; treat only after the area is secured and the hazard is stabilized.
• C. Enter the area to evacuate casualties without securing hazards.
• D. Call for a larger team before taking any action.

Answer: (B)

The main concept here is scene safety: you must not approach casualties in the presence of hazards until the area is secured and the hazard is stabilized. If there are explosive or other dangerous conditions, the priority is to protect yourself and the casualties by controlling the environment first. This means establishing a safe perimeter, isolating or mitigating the hazard as trained personnel or specialists would, and waiting for the hazard to be stabilized before entering to provide medical care. Only after you can proceed with appropriate PPE and controlled access should you move in to treat casualties.

Approaching from outside the hazard boundary with basic PPE might still leave you exposed to ongoing threats, so it isn’t reliable protection if the hazard isn’t controlled. Entering the area to evacuate casualties without securing hazards risks making things worse for both you and the victim. Waiting for a larger team isn’t inherently wrong, but the essential requirement is to secure and stabilize the hazard before attempting rescue or casualty care, ensuring that when care begins it is performed in a safe, controlled environment.