The Ultimate Step-by-Step Extrication Guide: Ensuring Scene Safety and Effective Rescue Operations
- Genesis Rescue Systems
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
Is There Such a Thing as a 'SAFE' Scene?
Scene safety means different things to different people, but for firefighters and rescue crews, it’s about making the environment as safe as possible for victims, the public, and ourselves. However, scene safety isn’t just about what happens when we get there—it starts the moment the call comes in.
A safe scene isn’t a guarantee, but it’s our responsibility to control what we can. This step-by-step extrication guide will break down the key elements of a safe and effective rescue operation, from dispatch to post-call cleanup.
Step 1: Build a Strong Relationship with Dispatch
A successful extrication begins with good communication. Do you have a solid working relationship with dispatch? If not, fix it—no egos, no "back in my day" nonsense. Clear communication ensures you get the right information and the right resources rolling.
Step 2: Train for Equipment Readiness
Do your firefighters know where everything is on the rig? If not, that’s a problem. Unnecessary trips back to the truck waste time and expose personnel to hazards. Train regularly—make a game out of it. "Where’s the _____?" should be a common drill. There’s no excuse for running around opening every compartment when time is critical.
Step 3: Get to the Scene Safely and Responsibly
You’re no good to the victim if you don’t make it there. Are your drivers operating safely? Are POV (Personally Owned Vehicle) responders obeying speed limits? I used to think I was invincible—until a senior firefighter set me straight. Make sure your team understands that responding to a call is a privilege, not a race.
Step 4: Position the Apparatus Correctly
Once you arrive, where you park matters.
Block traffic if needed.
Angle the rig to prevent cars from passing behind it.
Turn off headlights so you don’t blind oncoming traffic.
Get scene lights and box lights set up immediately—if you can’t see, you can’t work effectively.
Step 5: Call for Backup Early
I’d rather have ten extra firefighters standing by than need them and not have them. Don’t let ego stop you from calling for help. Be specific:
"We need another set of extrication tools."
"We need a helicopter."
"Send three ambulances."
Specific requests make the response smoother and more efficient.
Step 6: Conduct a Solid Size-Up
As equipment is coming off the rig, do your 360:
Talk to the driver. VERBAL, not physical—if you take C-spine, you’re now married to that patient, and someone else has to do the 360.
Look under the car. Get down and look. You don’t want to declare the scene clear only to find another victim when the tow truck lifts the vehicle.
Assess hazards—fuel leaks, electrical dangers, unstable terrain.
A thorough size-up can prevent nasty surprises.
Step 7: Create and Communicate an Action Plan
"Git ‘em out" is NOT a plan. Your action plan should cover the following:
Stabilization needs.
Battery disconnection (to prevent airbag deployment or engine restart).
Primary and secondary extrication methods.
Backup plans—don’t get tunnel vision.
A simple command like "Take the driver’s side off and jack the dash" sets clear expectations. Adjust as needed, but make sure everyone knows what’s happening.
Step 8: Review the Call in Real Time
Once the victim is out and en route to care, take 30 seconds for a quick debrief.
What worked?
What didn’t?
How can we improve?
This isn’t a blame session—it’s about getting better. Every call is a learning opportunity.
Step 9: Restore Equipment Immediately
Back at the station, the job isn’t over.
Clean and inspect tools. Cutters, spreaders, rams, struts—get the dirt and glass off.
Refuel or recharge. Hydraulic tools, saws, flashlights—everything should be ready to go.
Replace blades and consumables. No one wants to grab a dead Sawzall on the next call.
Even if it’s 3 AM, reset your gear before you hit the bunkroom.
Step 10: Conduct a Post-Incident Review
At your next meeting, go over the call in depth:
Patient outcome updates. Your crew needs to know how things turned out.
Lessons learned. What worked? What didn’t?
Training gaps. If you struggled with something, now is the time for a refresher.
If the call was rough, bring in an outside trainer. Extrication skills are perishable—keep learning.
Final Thoughts
Extrication isn’t just about cutting metal—it’s about working smart, staying safe, and always improving. This step-by-step extrication guide is designed to keep you sharp and ready for the next call. The better we get; the better outcomes we give our patients.
Stay safe, train hard, and be ready for the next one.
Looking to improve your extrication skills? Watch our hands-on training videos for expert extrication guides and in-depth demonstrations.
***The videos and blogs provided by Genesis Rescue Systems are intended solely for educational and demonstrative purposes. While we strive to provide accurate and informative content, viewers must understand that the techniques, methods, and procedures demonstrated in these videos may not encompass all potential emergency scenarios or considerations.
It is crucial to emphasize that these demonstrations do not substitute for professional training or certification in emergency response. Viewers are strongly advised to adhere strictly to the protocols, procedures, and guidelines established by their respective departments, agencies, or organizations during any emergency situation.
Genesis Rescue Systems and its affiliates hereby disclaim any liability for damages or injuries that may result from the improper application or misinterpretation of the information provided in these videos. Viewers assume all risks associated with the use of any techniques or equipment demonstrated and should exercise caution and discretion at all times.
By accessing and viewing these videos, viewers acknowledge and agree to the terms of this disclaimer and accept full responsibility for their actions and decisions in emergency situations. ***
