At an emergency scene with a strong sulfur smell and an unconscious patient inside, what should you do first?

• A. Start CPR immediately
• B. Call specialized services for assistance
• C. Remove the patient from the building
• D. Administer oxygen

Answer: (B)

A hazardous gas scene demands scene safety first. A strong sulfur odor indoors suggests toxic inhalation risk, so your priority is to avoid entering without proper protection and to get specialized help on scene. Calling HazMat/EMS ensures the environment is assessed, air monitored, and decontamination arranged, and they can determine when it’s safe to pursue patient care. Entering without safeguards could expose you to the gas and complicate the rescue. Once the scene is secured by trained responders, you can follow their directions for patient care, including oxygen if indicated.