If you have multiple victims, which one should you treat first?

In a scenario with multiple victims, prioritizing treatment is crucial to maximize the chances of survival among those affected. Focusing on the victim with the most severe injuries is the best approach because these individuals are at an increased risk of life-threatening conditions.

Victims with severe injuries may have compromised airway, breathing, or circulation, which requires immediate attention to prevent deterioration. In emergency response, addressing life-threatening conditions first is part of the triage process. This system helps responders allocate resources effectively, ensuring that the most critical cases receive care as soon as possible.

Victims who are unconscious or unable to communicate (such as those who can speak) may also represent serious situations, but the key lies in recognizing that severe injuries typically indicate a higher level of urgency and complexity in treatment needs. By treating the most severely injured first, lifeguards can implement lifesaving interventions without delay, aligning with best practices in emergency management.