What should be the first step when responding to a spinal injury in the water?

The first step when responding to a spinal injury in the water is to ensure the scene is safe before entering. This is essential because entering a hazardous environment can put both the rescuer and the victim at risk. Ensuring safety allows the lifeguard or rescuer to assess the situation without endangering themselves and enables them to provide effective assistance without additional complications.

By confirming that the area is safe—whether checking for ongoing hazards like strong currents, other swimmers in distress, or hazardous conditions—the rescuer can proceed with subsequent steps in a methodical and secure manner. This initial assessment is crucial in managing the situation effectively without creating further emergencies.

Other actions can follow once safety is ensured, such as stabilizing the victim or calling for help, but addressing environmental safety is the foundational step in any rescue scenario involving potential spinal injuries in the water.