What is the first action you should take upon arriving at a crime scene?

Upon arriving at a crime scene, the paramount first action is to secure the scene to prevent contamination. Securing the crime scene is critical because it ensures that any potential evidence remains undisturbed, protecting it from being altered, destroyed, or contaminated by unauthorized individuals. This action involves establishing a perimeter around the area and controlling access to it, thereby maintaining the integrity of the evidence that is likely to be present.

By securing the scene first, investigators create a controlled environment where evidence can be properly collected and analyzed later on. This foundational step is essential, as any contamination could compromise the entire investigation and affect the validity of evidence presented in court. Collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, or looking for forensic evidence all rely on the fact that the scene has been secured. Therefore, taking this initial action lays the groundwork for a thorough and effective investigation.