What is the first step in the four lifesaving steps?

The first step in the four lifesaving steps is to check the airways. This is crucial because an open airway is essential for a person to breathe and receive oxygen. If a person is unable to breathe due to a blocked airway, all other interventions are moot until this primary issue is addressed. Ensuring that the airway is clear allows for adequate oxygenation, which is vital for survival and prevents further complications.

Once the airway is confirmed to be open and functioning, attention can then be redirected to other critical areas such as controlling shock, dressing wounds, or stopping bleeding. However, without an open airway, these subsequent steps would not be effective in stabilizing the individual. Thus, checking the airways is the foundational step in the lifesaving process.