What should be your initial action if you encounter an injured person in a remote location?

When encountering an injured person in a remote location, the initial action should be to ensure the scene is safe before approaching the patient. This step is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, approaching an injured person in a hazardous environment could put both the rescuer and the victim at further risk. Hazards might include unstable terrain, wildlife, fire, or the potential for additional injuries if the scene is an accident site.

By assessing the safety of the scene, you can make informed decisions about how to proceed with care. This approach prioritizes personal safety, which allows for more effective and focused assistance to the injured individual. After confirming the scene is safe, you can then fully assess the patient's condition and provide necessary first aid or call for help while ensuring that further harm does not occur.

Other options, such as administering first aid immediately or moving the patient, could lead to dangerous situations if the initial environment has not been secured. Calling for help is indeed important but can only effectively follow a safety assessment. Therefore, confirming the safety of the scene is the foundational step in delivering effective emergency care in all wilderness or remote situations.