West Coast EMT Block One Exam

Upon arrival at a motor vehicle crash, what should you do after ensuring the area is secure?

1. Put on high-visibility safety vests

2. Assist with vehicle stabilization

3. Quickly begin the triage process

4. Report to the incident commander

The correct answer is: Put on high-visibility safety vests

After ensuring the area is secure, the next step involves putting on high-visibility safety vests. This is critical as it enhances your visibility to oncoming traffic and other responders at the scene, reducing the risk of further accidents. High-visibility apparel is essential in emergency situations, especially in chaotic environments like motor vehicle crashes, where safety for both responders and victims is a priority. Wearing a safety vest signals to others on the scene that you are a first responder, ensuring that those around you can clearly identify you and maintain a safe distance. This safety measure helps establish a visible and organized presence amid potential hazards, allowing for a more effective and coordinated response to the incident. The other choices, while important aspects of emergency response, would follow the initial step of ensuring your personal safety and visibility in a high-risk environment. For example, assisting with vehicle stabilization or beginning triage are tasks that come after you have established a safe operational area and taken precautions to protect yourself and others.