What is the first step you should take when you encounter a person who is down?

• A. Make the Scene Safe
• B. Call for Help
• C. Check for Responsiveness
• D. Begin CPR

Answer: (A)

Make the scene safe first. Before you touch or move anyone, you have to ensure you aren’t walking into danger yourself. Scanning for hazards like traffic, fire, downed power lines, exposed chemicals, or unstable ground protects you from becoming a second casualty and gives you a clear, safe path to help.

Once the area is secure, you can proceed with the next steps—checking responsiveness, calling for help, and then providing appropriate care (such as CPR if the person is unresponsive and not breathing). If you skip safety and start with care, you risk getting hurt and being unable to assist at all.