What should be the first course of action upon arrival at a scene with a patient requiring complex moving and handling?

The primary action upon arriving at a scene with a patient requiring complex moving and handling should be to contact operational control for additional resource allocation. This step is crucial because complex handling scenarios often involve specific risks and may require specialized equipment or additional personnel to ensure the safety of both the patient and the responders. By informing operational control, you can ensure that appropriate resources, such as extra team members or tailored equipment, are on their way to assist, which can facilitate a safer and more efficient handling of the situation.

Taking immediate action to move the patient or retrieving equipment without an adequate assessment can lead to potential injury to both the patient and the responders. It is vital to have the right support in place before engaging in any physical handling to ensure that the process is as safe and effective as possible. Assessing the environment is also critical, but coordinating additional resources takes precedence to prepare for the complexities of the situation.