National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Operations Practice Exam

The majority of treatment in EMS operations occurs in the green or cold zone. This area is often considered the safest zone for providing medical care because it is typically secure from hazards or immediate threats, allowing EMS professionals to focus on patient assessment and treatment without the risk of exposure to dangers often found in other zones.

In contrast, the red or hot zone is the area directly affected by a hazardous scene or situation, where immediate risk to personnel exists. Providing treatment here would be unsafe and impractical. The warm zone is a transitional area between the hot and cold zones; while it may be safer than the hot zone, it is not the designated space for delivering the majority of treatment due to the lingering risks. The command center is essential for coordination and leadership but is not where direct patient care typically occurs. Therefore, the green or cold zone is the correct context for where the majority of treatment is provided in EMS operations.