You are called to the scene of a car versus tree accident. Upon arrival, you find the car to be engulfed in flames, with fire showing from underneath the hood and inside the passenger compartment. You can see that the operator of this vehicle is unconscious and slumped over the steering wheel. Which of the following is your first priority?

While all of the answers listed are considered priorities in this scenario, the safety of yourself and your crew must always come first. Your primary responsibility is always to ensure the safety of yourself and your crew. Once this is completed, then the focus can turn to the extrication and management of the patient. Always stay attentive to the scene, however, as things may suddenly change for the worse.