1.2 Safety First: Scene Safety & PPE

It might feel natural to rush in when someone’s hurt—but take a breath. Your first job in any emergency is to make sure the scene is safe. If you get injured or exposed, you’re no help to anyone. Worse, you might add to the emergency.

Before you approach, ask yourself:

• Is there fire, smoke, or chemical exposure?
• Is there traffic, electricity, or unstable structures?
• Is the situation violent or escalating?

If the answer is yes—or even “I’m not sure”—step back and call 911. It’s not cowardly. It’s smart.

Once the scene is safe, use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to reduce the risk of infection—for you and the person you’re helping. Bodily fluids can carry dangerous pathogens like HIV, hepatitis B, and more.

Common PPE items include:

• Non-latex gloves (a must-have in your First Aid kit)
• CPR face shield or pocket mask
• Eye protection (goggles or safety glasses)
• Face masks (especially during respiratory illness outbreaks)

Quick tip: You can improvise PPE if needed—use a clean plastic bag over your hands if you’re out of gloves, or a shirt over your mouth in a pinch. Just remember: you come first.