What action should be taken first when responding to an emergency situation?

Gaining and maintaining situational awareness is a critical first step in responding to an emergency situation. This involves understanding the current conditions, including the nature and severity of the incident, the needs of affected populations, and the capabilities and resources at hand. Situational awareness allows responders to make informed decisions, prioritize actions, and effectively allocate resources based on real-time information.

By establishing a clear picture of the situation, responders can identify immediate threats, resources needed, and potential risks. This foundational understanding helps ensure that subsequent actions—such as activating resources, coordinating with agencies, or demobilizing—are based on accurate and timely data, ultimately leading to more effective incident management.