In a severe weather situation, what is one of the first actions for first responders?

Establishing a safe area for patients and responders is crucial in a severe weather situation as it ensures the safety of both victims and response personnel. This action allows first responders to create a controlled environment where they can assess the situation, provide care, and coordinate further response efforts without the risk of additional harm from ongoing severe weather conditions. A secure area provides a designated location for gathering resources, organizing triage, and managing patient flow, which is essential for an effective response.

In contrast, assessing damage, directing traffic, or deploying rescue dogs, while important actions, typically follow the establishment of a safe area. These efforts could expose responders to danger if they are conducted in an unsafe environment, emphasizing the priority of ensuring safety first.