What is the first step to take when exiting an emergency vehicle?

The correct approach when exiting an emergency vehicle is to first put on your high-visibility safety apparel. This step is crucial because it enhances your visibility to other road users, thereby significantly increasing your safety in a potentially hazardous environment. Emergency scenes often involve vehicles moving at high speeds and can be chaotic, so having high-visibility clothing helps ensure that you stand out and are seen by others, including drivers who may not be fully aware of your presence.

Prioritizing safety by donning this apparel creates a safer environment not only for the emergency responder but also for other individuals who may be on scene. This preventive measure is a standard practice in traffic incident management, reflecting the emphasis on safety protocols to protect personnel engaged in emergency response efforts.