What is the first step an ETC should take when answering an emergency call?

The first step an Emergency Telecommunicator (ETC) should take when answering an emergency call is to gather essential information. This is crucial because understanding the nature of the call, including the type of emergency, the location, and any immediate dangers, allows the ETC to assess the situation effectively. By collecting this information upfront, the ETC is better equipped to provide appropriate guidance to the caller and ensure that the correct emergency services are dispatched to the scene.

Gathering essential details also helps in prioritizing the response and informing the responding units about the specifics of the situation, which can be vital for their safety and efficacy. This foundational step enables the ETC to execute their responsibilities efficiently and respond to the caller's needs adequately.

Addressing the other options, while identifying the location is critical and calming the caller is important for managing stress and gathering information effectively, both of these steps follow the initial need to collect essential details. Dispatching units is also a key function, but this action is contingent upon having the necessary information first. Therefore, gathering essential information is the logical first step in the emergency response process.