What is the initial assignment for the first arriving units at an MCI?

• A. To assess the scene, establish command, and begin triage of patients.
• B. To immediately secure the medical facility.
• C. To request air support only.
• D. To set up a decontamination station.

Answer: (A)

In an MCI, the first units are focused on getting control of the situation and rapidly identifying needs. The initial actions are quick scene size-up to understand hazards, number of patients, and access routes; establishing Incident Command to create a single, coordinated point of control and clear communications; and beginning triage to quickly sort victims by the severity of their injuries. This sequence ensures safety, organizes the response, and directs resources where they’re most needed, enabling those with life-threatening injuries to be treated and transported sooner. Securing a medical facility, requesting air support, or setting up decontamination stations are important, but they come after command is in place and triage has begun to structure the overall response.