What is the first action you should take when encountering a casualty with an electrical burn?

The correct approach when encountering a casualty with an electrical burn is to secure the power source if possible. This action is crucial because electrical burns can result from current traveling through the body, and if the power remains on, there is a high risk of further injury to the casualty or to the responder who attempts to assist them.

In situations involving electrical burns, safety is the top priority. If the power cannot be shut off safely, then using a nonconductive object to move the casualty away from the electrical source is advisable. This minimizes the risk of additional electrical injury.

Other options, such as using a metal tool to remove the casualty from the electrical source, pose significant risks of electrocution to both the rescuer and the victim. Assessing the extent of the burn is necessary but should only be done after ensuring the casualty is no longer in contact with the electrical source. Applying burn dressings immediately without first addressing the source of the injury can lead to complications and does not address the immediate danger posed by the live electrical source.