What is the first step in the incident response as per the protocols?

The first step in the incident response, as outlined in the protocols, is to conduct a situation assessment and establish incident objectives. This initial phase is crucial because it sets the foundation for an effective response. By evaluating the situation, responders can gain a comprehensive understanding of the incident's nature and scale, which is vital for determining the appropriate course of action.

Through this assessment, the team identifies the specific needs, potential impacts, and resources required, which in turn informs the development of clear, actionable objectives. Having well-defined objectives aligns the response efforts and enables the team to focus their resources strategically, improving overall efficiency and safety for all involved.

This step is fundamental and precedes actions like resource mobilization or evacuation, as understanding the situation fully ensures that any subsequent moves are made with informed intent and clear goals in mind.