Which statement describes the proper sequence of actions in electrical shock first aid?

Which statement describes the proper sequence of actions in electrical shock first aid?

• A. Check the scene, then touch the victim, then turn off power.
• B. Call for help, then turn off power.
• C. Turn off power, then assess safety, then call for help, then provide care.
• D. Provide care first, then call for help.

Answer: (C)

In electrical shock first aid, safety of the rescuer comes first, so you remove the live hazard before approaching the victim. Turning off the power at its source eliminates the risk of electrocution, which is the most important reason this sequence starts with de-energizing. Once the power is off, you can safely assess the scene to confirm there are no other hazards and you can approach without fear of being shocked or causing an arc flash. After confirming it’s safe, call for help so trained responders and equipment are on the way. Only then do you provide care for the victim, starting with checking their responsiveness and breathing and proceeding with CPR if needed, along with treating burns or other injuries as appropriate. You continue to monitor the victim until help arrives. If you skip turning off the power, you or the victim could be shocked again; if you call for help or start care before ensuring the area is safe, you risk delaying critical control of the scene. This order—de-energize, ensure safety, summon help, then provide care—minimizes risk and ensures effective aid.

In electrical shock first aid, safety of the rescuer comes first, so you remove the live hazard before approaching the victim. Turning off the power at its source eliminates the risk of electrocution, which is the most important reason this sequence starts with de-energizing. Once the power is off, you can safely assess the scene to confirm there are no other hazards and you can approach without fear of being shocked or causing an arc flash.

After confirming it’s safe, call for help so trained responders and equipment are on the way. Only then do you provide care for the victim, starting with checking their responsiveness and breathing and proceeding with CPR if needed, along with treating burns or other injuries as appropriate. You continue to monitor the victim until help arrives.

If you skip turning off the power, you or the victim could be shocked again; if you call for help or start care before ensuring the area is safe, you risk delaying critical control of the scene. This order—de-energize, ensure safety, summon help, then provide care—minimizes risk and ensures effective aid.