What is the primary action a peace officer must take when responding to a domestic violence call?

When responding to a domestic violence call, the primary action a peace officer must take is to assess the situation and ensure safety. This involves evaluating the environment for any immediate threats to the peace officer, the victim, and any potential suspects. Safety is the foremost priority in any domestic violence situation, as these calls can quickly escalate into more dangerous encounters.

By ensuring the safety of all individuals involved, the officer can effectively stabilize the situation before proceeding with further actions, such as interviewing parties, documenting incidents, or calling for backup. Assessing the environment allows the officer to determine the best course of action to protect everyone and to establish control over the situation, which is critical in maintaining order and preventing further harm.