Which action should be taken first when responding to a vehicle breakdown?

When responding to a vehicle breakdown, the first action that should be taken is to ensure personal safety by securing the area. This step is crucial because it protects both yourself and other road users from potential harm. Ensuring safety involves moving the vehicle to a safe location if possible, activating hazard lights, setting up warning triangles, and remaining aware of the surrounding traffic.

This approach prioritizes the well-being of everyone involved and helps prevent accidents that could occur due to the breakdown. Once safety is established, additional actions such as attempting to repair the vehicle or contacting a tow truck can follow, but securing the area is the foundational step that cannot be overlooked.