What initial step should be taken after verifying a scene is safe?

After confirming that the scene is safe, the correct initial step is to check airway responsiveness. This is crucial because ensuring that the victim can breathe properly is essential before performing any further life-saving interventions.

When a person is unresponsive, evaluating their airway responsiveness allows you to quickly determine whether they are breathing and if there are any obstructions. If the person is not responding, it is imperative to clear the airway of any obstructions to facilitate effective breathing or ventilation. This step sets the foundation for successful CPR or advanced medical interventions as it prioritizes the most critical aspects of patient care.

Other actions, such as calling for advanced medical help or checking for a pulse, can follow but do not take precedence over assessing the airway. Chest compressions, while vital in a cardiac arrest scenario, should only commence after ensuring that the airway is clear and if the person is not breathing.