What should be the first step when approaching an incident scene?

The first step when approaching an incident scene is to assess the safety of the area before taking any actions. This is crucial because ensuring the safety of both the law enforcement officer and any bystanders is a top priority. When arriving at a scene, finding out if it is safe to enter allows officers to evaluate potential hazards, such as traffic, weapons, or unstable structures, and to prevent further injury or escalation of the situation.

By assessing safety first, officers can take necessary precautions, such as setting up a perimeter or calling for additional support if required. This approach not only protects the responding officers but also helps in managing the scene more effectively, ensuring that any further actions taken, such as providing help to injured individuals or documenting the scene, can be conducted with less risk of harm.