You have arrived at a scene involving a forklift on its side and partially inside a drainage pit. The victim is trapped and entangled, there is evidence of leaking flammable gas. You should:

In this scenario, considering the presence of leaking flammable gas, prioritizing fire protection and preparing for the possibility of fire is crucial. Flammable gas leaks pose an immediate risk of ignition, which can lead to a fire or explosion, especially in an emergency situation where sparks or flames could easily initiate a fire. By preparing for fire protection, the team can ensure that adequate safety measures, such as fire extinguishers and protective barriers, are in place, reducing the risk of injuries to rescuers and bystanders.

Addressing fire safety before attempting to disentangle the victim or stabilize the forklift is essential because it addresses the imminent danger presented by the flammable gas. This precaution allows rescue efforts to proceed with a reduced risk of escalating the situation into a more dangerous fire scenario, ensuring that the safety of both victims and rescuers is maximized.

While stabilizing the forklift is also an important step in the rescue process, it should not come before precautions for fire safety, given the circumstances. Extending the perimeter is relevant to ensuring safety, but it does not directly address the immediate fire hazards present at the scene. Starting with fire protection allows the rescue team to create a safer environment for all subsequent operations.