Before calling 9-1-1, what should you do with the victim?

Before calling 9-1-1, checking the scene for safety is crucial to ensure that both you and the victim are in a safe environment. This step protects you from potential hazards such as traffic, fire, or unstable structures that could pose risks during an emergency. Ensuring safety gives you the ability to provide assistance to the victim without becoming another casualty.

Taking this precaution allows you to assess the situation and determine if it is safe to proceed with helping the victim. Once you confirm that the environment is safe, you can effectively provide aid, call for help, or direct bystanders to assist if necessary.

Other actions, such as checking the victim’s breathing or applying a bandage, are important steps in the process of providing first aid but should be approached only after ensuring the area is secure. Giving water is typically not recommended as it can pose a choking hazard, especially if the victim is unconscious or semi-conscious.