What action should be taken immediately if a firearm is dropped?

When a firearm is dropped, the immediate response should be to check the safety and then inspect it before using it. This is crucial because a dropped firearm can potentially disengage the safety mechanism or sustain internal damage that could affect its operation. Ensuring that the safety is engaged helps prevent any accidental discharge while you perform a more thorough inspection.

Inspecting the firearm afterwards allows the user to check for any signs of physical damage or misalignment that could render the firearm unsafe to operate. Engaging in this necessary protocol helps maintain the safety of the user and those around them.

Other options lack this emphasis on safety. For example, checking for visible damage alone does not ensure that the firearm is safe to handle without first confirming that the safety is engaged. Assuming the firearm is still safe to use can lead to dangerous situations, as one cannot be certain of its condition without inspection. Similarly, picking up the firearm and continuing to use it without any examination could result in serious accidents if the firearm was compromised upon impact.