Which of the following is a critical initial step in emergency management?

Assessing potential hazards is a critical initial step in emergency management because it allows responders to identify any immediate dangers that could threaten their safety, the safety of victims, and the effectiveness of the response. This assessment helps in creating a clear picture of the environment and the specific risks associated with the situation, such as fire, electrical hazards, or potential structural collapses. Understanding these hazards enables responders to formulate a strategic plan and prioritize actions based on the identified risks, ensuring that they can provide effective care while minimizing their own exposure to danger.

Other steps, while important in the overall emergency response strategy, follow this assessment. Reporting the incident is vital for mobilizing additional resources and informing agencies, but it requires that an understanding of the environment has already been established. Establishing communication is crucial to coordinating efforts, but it is most effective when responders first understand what hazards they might be facing. Similarly, conducting a patient survey is essential for providing care, but it cannot be done effectively until the scene is assessed for safety. Thus, assessing potential hazards lays the groundwork for all subsequent actions in the emergency management process.