When approaching a vehicle involved in an accident, what’s the first evaluation step?

The first evaluation step when approaching a vehicle involved in an accident is to identify potential hazards. This is a critical step because it helps the responder understand the scene's risks, ensuring safety for both the rescue team and any potential victims. Hazards can include leaking fluids, electrical issues, fire risks, or the presence of bystanders in danger.

Identifying these hazards allows responders to develop a safer approach strategy before they engage in further evaluations, such as checking passenger safety or assessing the vehicle’s stability. Further actions, like contacting emergency services, may follow, but they typically occur after the initial hazard assessment to ensure the responder's safety first.