After check-in, what is the first step you should take?

Upon check-in, the first step should be to locate your incident supervisor for an initial briefing. This is crucial because the supervisor will provide essential information regarding the current situation, objectives, and any updates on the incident action plan. This briefing ensures that all team members are aligned and aware of their specific roles and responsibilities within the operation. Understanding the context and goals set by the incident commander facilitates effective coordination and enhances overall response efforts.

While other actions are important, they follow the initial briefing. Starting operational tasks without first understanding the situation could lead to miscommunication and ineffective actions, potentially putting the operation and personnel at risk. Reporting to the staging area or reviewing the incident action plan are also necessary steps, but these actions should come after receiving directions from the incident supervisor to ensure they are tailored to the immediate needs of the incident.