What is a primary responsibility of a first responder at a crime scene?

Securing the crime scene and ensuring safety is a critical responsibility of a first responder. When first responders arrive at a scene, their first priority is to assess the situation and protect the safety of all individuals present, including victims, witnesses, and themselves. This includes establishing a perimeter to prevent unauthorized access, which safeguards the integrity of potential evidence. By securing the area, first responders help ensure that the scene remains undisturbed, which is vital for subsequent investigations and evidence collection.

Focusing on safety at the outset helps to minimize chaos and protect both human life and the physical evidence that may be crucial for solving the crime. This responsibility sets the stage for the work that investigators and forensic teams will conduct later, as a secure and controlled scene is essential for accurate and reliable evidence processing.