What is the first step to do if you notice someone unconscious?

The appropriate response when finding someone unconscious is to check for breathing and call for help. This action is crucial because it prioritizes the immediate well-being of the person. Assessing their breathing can determine the severity of the situation; if they are not breathing, immediate medical intervention is necessary, such as calling emergency services and initiating CPR if trained to do so.

Furthermore, calling for help ensures that additional assistance arrives quickly, which is essential in emergency situations. It allows trained professionals to take over and provide proper medical care, which can be life-saving. This method reflects effective first aid protocols that emphasize safety and immediate assessment over unverified attempts to rouse the person, which may not only lead to further risks but can also delay critical care.