After activating EMS, what is the first action an officer should take for an unresponsive victim?

For an unresponsive victim, the first action an officer should take after activating EMS is to check the victim's airway, breathing, and circulation. This step is crucial as it allows the responder to assess the victim's condition and determine if immediate life-saving interventions, such as CPR, are necessary.

By checking the airway, you can ensure there are no obstructions that would prevent breathing. Assessing breathing helps establish whether the victim is receiving adequate oxygen, and checking circulation involves checking for a pulse to see if the heart is still functioning effectively. This sequence is part of the primary assessment in emergency response protocols, which prioritizes the most critical aspects of a victim's condition to guide further action.

Performing CPR immediately without this assessment could lead to overlooking necessary steps, such as ensuring the airway is clear. Waiting for EMS to arrive before taking any action would be inappropriate since the victim requires immediate attention. Applying an AED without prior assessment could also be ineffective or unnecessary if the heart is still beating and the victim is breathing. Therefore, the proper first action is to conduct an initial check of the victim's airway, breathing, and circulation to decide the best course of action.