Where should the Casualty Collection Point (CCP) be located?

The Casualty Collection Point (CCP) should be located in an open area away from all known threats to ensure the safety and security of both the victims and the responding personnel. Establishing the CCP in a safe environment minimizes the risk of additional harm from the ongoing threat and allows medical personnel to attend to the injured without the danger of crossfire or chaos that can occur at or near the incident scene.

Placing the CCP too close to the main entrance could expose first responders and victims to the immediate dangers of the ongoing situation. Locating it directly on the incident site might lead to further injuries or complications due to proximity to the threat, not allowing for effective medical response or evacuation of casualties. Lastly, situating the CCP in the emergency room of a nearby hospital is impractical, as it would delay care by requiring transport through potentially dangerous areas and could overwhelm hospital resources. Thus, selecting a protected, open area away from threats optimizes the response effectiveness and enhances overall safety during a critical incident.