What is the first step in the basic steps for emergency management?

The first step in emergency management is to assess the situation. This step is critical because it involves gathering information about what has happened, determining the nature and extent of the emergency, and identifying any immediate dangers to both yourself and others. By accurately assessing the situation, you are able to make informed decisions on how to proceed with the rescue or emergency response effectively.

Once the assessment is made, you can prioritize actions and determine the best course of action, which may include attending to injuries, controlling the scene, or acting on any response plan you may have prepared. Without this initial assessment, you might overlook essential factors that could affect the safety and success of your response efforts. Thus, proper assessment serves as a foundation for all subsequent actions in emergency management.