What is a common practice if a rescuer encounters an unconscious victim?

When a rescuer encounters an unconscious victim, it is crucial to check their breathing before taking any further action. This step is important as it helps determine the victim's level of consciousness and whether they are in need of immediate medical assistance.

Assessing breathing allows the rescuer to prioritize their actions based on the victim's condition. If the victim is not breathing, the rescuer will need to begin interventions such as CPR or call for emergency help. If the person is breathing, the rescuer can focus on ensuring their safety and comfort while waiting for medical professionals to arrive.

While assessing the surroundings is also important, it serves as an initial safety precaution rather than a direct intervention for the victim's medical needs. Securing a victim with a harness or lowering them without checking for breathing are actions that might be necessary in certain scenarios, but they do not address the immediate assessment of an unconscious person's condition or urgent medical needs.