What should you do first when approaching a scene to provide first aid?

When approaching a scene to provide first aid, the first action should be to ensure the scene is safe. Safety is the primary concern because if the scene is dangerous, approaching it could put both the rescuer and the victim at further risk. This means looking for potential hazards such as traffic, fire, or unstable structures that could pose a threat during the intervention.

Once it is confirmed that the scene is safe, the rescuer can then proceed to check for bystanders, call for professional help if necessary, and assess the injuries of the victim. However, without ensuring safety initially, any subsequent actions could be jeopardized, leading to additional harm or complications. Therefore, making safety the top priority is essential for effective first aid responses.