What is an essential first step when assessing the scene of an emergency?

Ensuring your safety is a crucial first step when assessing the scene of an emergency. Before providing any assistance or administering first aid, it is vital to evaluate the surroundings for potential hazards. This includes looking for dangers such as traffic, flames, unstable structures, or hazardous materials that could put you or others at risk. By prioritizing your safety, you position yourself to assist the victim effectively without becoming another casualty.

Providing first aid is certainly important, but it should be done only after making sure that the environment is safe. Checking if others are present might be relevant, but it does not take precedence over securing your own safety. Ignoring potential dangers is not a responsible action in an emergency, as it can lead to further injuries or complications. Thus, the right action is to first ensure the area is safe for yourself and then proceed with care.