A dispatcher is responding to a caller after a person was shocked by a downed power line. Which action should the dispatcher instruct the caller to take to ensure safety before emergency responders arrive?

• A. Move the patient away from the line
• B. Touch the patient to check for responsiveness
• C. Approach with a dry towel to shield from electricity
• D. Stay away from the downed line and do not touch the patient

Answer: (D)

The key safety principle is that downed power lines can still be energized and pose a severe risk to anyone nearby. Electricity can arc and travel through the patient to the ground, and a rescuer who touches the patient or line can become a path for current too. Therefore, the safest instruction is to stay away from the line and not touch the patient, until utility personnel de-energize the line and responders confirm it’s safe to approach. Call for emergency services and the utility, keep others back, and wait for a safe clearance before providing care.