In the process of handling an emergency message, officers should first do which of the following?

In handling an emergency message, prioritizing the notification of a supervisor is critical because it ensures that the proper chain of command is followed. The supervisor has the authority and experience to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. They may have protocols in place for dealing with emergencies and can allocate resources or personnel accordingly.

Notifying a supervisor first establishes a clear communication line and ensures that all actions following the receipt of the emergency message are guided by established procedures. This approach helps to maintain order during a potentially chaotic situation and ensures that the response is coordinated and efficient.

While documenting the message, assessing the situation, or speaking with the inmate may also be essential parts of addressing the emergency, doing so without first informing the supervisor could lead to miscommunication or inadequate response. Therefore, the correct initial action in this scenario is to notify the supervisor.