What responsibility does an EMT have when arriving first at a crime scene?

Upon arriving first at a crime scene, the primary responsibility of an EMT is to ensure scene safety and preserve evidence. This is crucial because their presence at the scene can significantly impact the integrity of any potential evidence that may be present.

Scene safety is the foremost concern—the EMT must assess the environment to identify any potential dangers, such as active threats or hazardous materials. This ensures the safety of all individuals present, including any victims, bystanders, and responders.

Preserving evidence is equally important, as EMTs must take care to avoid disturbing anything that could be pertinent to an investigation. This includes both physical evidence and potential witnesses. By securing the scene, an EMT plays a vital role in maintaining the chain of evidence, which can affect subsequent investigations and legal proceedings.

The other options highlight actions that are not appropriate for an EMT in this context. Investigating the crime is beyond their scope of training and responsibility. Providing first aid only if requested does not prioritize the necessity of immediate care that might be required in emergencies. Leaving the scene to call law enforcement undermines the EMT's role and responsibilities. The EMT must remain on site to assist victims and ensure the safety of the environment until law enforcement arrives. Thus, ensuring scene safety and preserving evidence aligns perfectly