What is the first step to take when responding to an unresponsive adult?

When responding to an unresponsive adult, the first step is to ensure the scene is safe. This is critical because assessing the safety of the environment helps protect both the responder and the person in distress from potential hazards, such as traffic, fire, or unstable structures. If the scene is not safe, attempting to provide assistance could lead to additional injuries or complications.

After confirming safety, the next steps typically involve checking the person's responsiveness and calling for emergency assistance if necessary. It’s important to stabilize the situation before any help can be effectively given, making safety the top priority.