Arriving at the scene of a scaffolding collapse in which two window washers are stranded outside the 10th floor of a building, you are introduced to the reporting party. What should you do with this person?

In a situation involving a scaffolding collapse with stranded individuals, it is critical to prioritize the safety and effectiveness of the rescue operation. Isolating the reporting party is essential as it helps to control the scene. This person may be emotionally distressed or could have vital information about the circumstances leading to the incident, such as details about the victims’ condition or any hazards present.

By isolating them, you can ensure that they don’t inadvertently interfere with rescue operations or create distractions. Furthermore, keeping the reporting party separate allows rescuers to gather crucial details without the noise or chaos that can arise from multiple individuals being present at the scene.

While engaging with the media or introducing the party to the subjects may seem appropriate in some contexts, these actions would not be prudent in a critical situation where focus must remain on the rescue efforts. Similarly, involving the reporting party in operations could divert their attention from their own emotional state, complicating communication and maintaining scene control.