Which of the following best describes a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI)?

A Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) is characterized by an event that results in a large number of casualties, which exceeds the available medical resources to manage the situation effectively. This definition highlights the critical nature of an MCI, where the number of victims requires a coordinated response that often involves multiple response agencies, increased personnel, and the need for immediate triage and treatment protocols to manage the overwhelming demand on healthcare systems.

This understanding is central to effectively preparing for and responding to MCIs, as first responders must be able to evaluate the situation quickly and allocate resources effectively to save as many lives as possible. Recognizing an MCI helps first responders implement the appropriate emergency response strategy and ensure that care reaches the most critically injured individuals first.