What is the first priority for the first member arriving at a crime scene?

The first priority for the first member arriving at a crime scene is to secure the scene. This action involves ensuring that the area is safe from potential dangers and preventing unauthorized personnel from tampering with any evidence. Securing the scene is essential because it preserves the integrity of the evidence and allows for a thorough investigation to be conducted later.

By establishing a secure perimeter, the officer can control access to the scene, which is vital in maintaining the chain of custody for evidence and ensuring that critical information is not lost or contaminated. This also includes making sure that any ongoing threats, such as an active assailant or hazardous conditions, are addressed before moving on to other tasks, such as interviewing witnesses or providing medical aid.

While interviewing witnesses, initiating medical services, and taking photographs of the scene are all important steps in the investigative process, they should not take precedence over securing the scene first. This foundational step sets the stage for the overall investigation and helps to protect the rights of individuals involved in the incident.