In the Critical Decision-Making Model (CDM), what is the first step?

• A. Assess threats and risks
• B. Identify possible options for action
• C. Activate emergency protocols
• D. Debrief after incident

Answer: (A)

Assessing threats and risks gives you essential situational awareness. By quickly sizing up the scene, you identify hazards, gauge how dangerous the situation is, and determine what resources are available or constrained. This foundation helps you prioritize actions and consider which options are reasonable, aiming to reduce risk before acting. If danger is immediate, you may initiate emergency protocols, but such steps flow from understanding what is threatening you and its severity. Debriefing happens after the incident to review decisions and outcomes, not at the start. So the first step is establishing a clear understanding of threats and risks to set a safe, effective path for what comes next.