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Mass-casualty triage seeks the greatest good for the greatest number. First-in crews perform rapid physiologic triage—often using simple algorithms that prioritize ability to walk, respiratory rate, perfusion (radial pulse/cap refill), and mental status—to categorize patients into immediate, delayed, minor, or expectant. This approach allocates limited resources to those most likely to benefit quickly, rather than focusing all care on the sickest single patient. Mechanism helps anticipate injury but does not replace physiologic assessment. Pediatric incidents employ age-appropriate systems (e.g., JumpSTART). Paramedic operations objectives emphasize scene safety, establishing command, resource requests, triage tags, casualty collection points, and clear radio communications. Avoid prolonged treatments on scene; provide lifesaving interventions that take seconds (airway opening, hemorrhage control, chest needle decompression if indicated), then move on. Effective triage facilitates coordinated transport and hospital distribution, improving overall survival in resource-scarce situations.