What is the first step in the 7 S's of Crime Scene Investigation?

The initial step in the 7 S's of Crime Scene Investigation is to secure the scene. This is essential because it establishes a safe perimeter around the area where the incident occurred, preventing unauthorized individuals from entering and potentially contaminating the evidence. Securing the scene also helps preserve the integrity of the physical environment and maintains the chain of custody for any evidence collected later.

By securing the scene first, investigators can ensure that all potential evidence remains undisturbed, allowing for accurate observations and collections to take place in subsequent steps. This foundational action is critical in ensuring that the investigation is conducted systematically and methodically, ultimately leading to more reliable conclusions about what occurred at the crime scene.