What should be the first priority when treating a casualty exposed to a chemical agent?

The first priority when treating a casualty exposed to a chemical agent is to remove the casualty from the contaminated environment and begin decontamination. This is crucial because chemical agents can continue to affect a person as long as they are in contact with the harmful substance. The first step should involve the rapid relocation of the casualty to a safe area to prevent further exposure to the chemical agent.

Once removed from the contaminated area, decontamination procedures can be initiated, which may include removing contaminated clothing and rinsing the skin to mitigate absorption of the chemical. This action reduces the risk of severe symptoms or further health deterioration caused by the agent.

Prioritizing decontamination is essential in these scenarios because exposure to a chemical agent can lead to rapid health decline, and the sooner the casualty is decontaminated, the better their chances are for recovery. Following this initial action, other steps like assessing injuries or administering first aid can be properly addressed in a safer environment. In response to urgent incidents involving chemical exposure, immediate action is often more beneficial than waiting for assistance or performing other assessments without first ensuring the casualty is out of harm's reach.