What are the key elements to assess before starting a rescue operation?

The safety of the rescuer is a critical element to assess before starting a rescue operation because ensuring the rescuer's well-being directly impacts the effectiveness of the rescue and the potential for success. If the rescuer is not safe, they could become a victim themselves, complicating the situation further and jeopardizing the outcome for both the rescuer and the individual in need. A rescuer must have a clear plan, access to appropriate personal protective equipment, and a situational awareness of potential hazards in the rescue environment.

Evaluating the safety of bystanders, while important, is secondary to the rescuer's safety. The age of the victim and the number of rescuers present may provide context for the rescue, but they do not hold the same priority as ensuring that the rescuer can operate effectively without risk to themselves. Prioritizing the rescuer's safety ensures that help can be delivered without adding to the emergency situation.