What should be evaluated first in an emergency situation?

Evaluating the environment safety first in an emergency situation is crucial because it ensures that both the responder and the patient are not exposed to additional hazards. Before providing care, it is essential to assess whether the area is safe from dangers such as traffic, fire, electrical hazards, or any other threats that could worsen the situation.

Safety must always come first; if the environment is not secure, it can lead to further injury to the responder or the patient. Once safety is confirmed, then the responder can focus on assessing the patient's history, vital signs, and symptoms without the risk of additional harm. This prioritization helps to create a secure environment for effective emergency intervention, ensuring that further complications do not arise during the response.