What is the first step before moving between vehicles and objects?

The correct first step before moving between vehicles and objects is to mark the exact position of all vehicles and objects. This is crucial because it allows the driver to have a clear understanding of the surrounding environment and helps them to navigate safely. By marking positions, you can visualize the spatial relationship between your vehicle and others, as well as any potential obstacles. This practice aids in maintaining situational awareness, which is fundamental to preventing accidents and ensuring a safe driving experience.

While ensuring the engine is off promotes safety when not in motion, it's not specifically geared toward preparing for movement. Checking mirrors is vital for monitoring blind spots and surrounding traffic but comes after assessing the positions of nearby vehicles and objects. Alerting other drivers is important for communication, especially in complex driving environments, but it relies on having a good understanding of the surrounding situation first. Therefore, marking positions provides the foundational awareness necessary before taking any further actions.