What should the first responder do if they encounter resistance when trying to evacuate a building?

When encountering resistance while attempting to evacuate a building, assessing the situation carefully and providing guidance is crucial. First responders must prioritize the safety of both the occupants and themselves. By carefully evaluating the environment, the responder can determine the cause of the resistance, which may include panic, confusion, or uncertain conditions such as smoke or fire.

Providing guidance allows the responder to communicate effectively with the occupants, helping alleviate their fears and direct them towards safe exits. This approach minimizes chaos and ensures that evacuation is handled in a controlled manner, ultimately reducing the risk of injury or misunderstanding that could arise if individuals are forcefully removed or if the responder simply ignores the situation.

In contrast, forcefully removing occupants could lead to panic or injury. Gathering additional support may be helpful in certain situations but should not delay immediate action where guidance is necessary. Ignoring resistance would compromise safety, as individuals may remain unaware of dangerous conditions. Therefore, the successful management of the evacuation process hinges on careful assessment and clear guidance, making this response the most appropriate in such scenarios.