SCENE SIZEUP

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SCENE SIZE-UP
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Scene Size-Up

• Initial evaluation of a scene
• Three Basic Goals
• Identify possible hazards
• Identify what led to your being called to the
  scene
• Identify the need for additional assistance

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Determine Scene Safety

• 1 priority
• Process is ongoing
• EMT must exercise leadership and take control of
  the scene

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Obtain Dispatch Information

• Remember scene safety begins upon receipt of call
  from dispatcher
• BSI protection
• Dispatchers may not have complete accurate
  information to work with
• Callers may deliberately give inaccurate
  information
• Routine calls may present a greater threat than
  major accidents

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BSI Precautions

• Eye protection
• Gloves
• Gown if necessary
• Mask if necessary

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Consider Scene Characteristics

• Remember that an injured EMT can not help a
  patient
• Do not enter unstable scenes
• Take extra precautions at crime scenes
• Portable radios
• Call for help from appropriate agencies
• Remove yourself if scene turns hazardous

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Crash Scenes

• Avoid Tunnel Vision
• Is vehicle stable
• Are power lines involved
• Jagged metal or broken glass
• Leaking fuel
• Fire

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Other Rescue Scenes

• Heights
• Underground areas
• Collapse/cave-ins
• Storage tanks/vats
• Silos/bins
• Farm equipment

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Special Situations

• Unstable surfaces slopes
• Ice
• Water
• Toxic substances and low oxygen areas
• Multiple patients with similar symptoms consider
  toxic environment

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Crime Scenes

• Potential for violence
• Firearms
• Stage unit
• If at the scene you suspect a threat, retreat.

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Arriving at the Scene

• Turn off lights sirens several blocks away if
  necessary
• Be aware of the killing zone
• Always assess the crowd
• Scene too quite
• Chaotic dont be pulled into the chaos

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Approaching the Scene

• Scene can turn dangerous
• Walk on grass
• Hold flashlight to your side
• Walk single file
• Only front person carries the flashlight
• Make a mental map of area for concealment
• Check windows corners
• Stand to the side of the door when knocking
• Never appear to block the patients route of escape