Colorado POST Practice Exam

What should you do first upon arriving at an accident scene?

1. Call for backup

2. Secure the scene

3. Render first aid

4. Collect evidence

The correct answer is: Secure the scene

Securing the scene is the essential first step upon arriving at an accident location. This action involves ensuring the safety of all individuals present, preventing further accidents, and establishing a perimeter to minimize risks for emergency responders and bystanders. Securing the scene also enables the responders to effectively manage traffic and control the environment, which is crucial for the safety of everyone involved, including victims and responders. By prioritizing scene security, law enforcement and emergency personnel can work more efficiently and safely. This foundational step helps set up a controlled environment where other important actions—such as rendering first aid, taking witness statements, and collecting evidence—can be conducted with minimal distractions and risks. Thus, securing the scene not only protects those at the scene but also facilitates a proper response to the accident.