American Lifeguard Practice Exam

What is the first step you should take in caring for a burn victim?

1. Apply cold water directly on the burn

2. Remove the victim from the source of the burn

3. Wrap the burn area in a cloth

4. Call for emergency medical assistance

The correct answer is: Remove the victim from the source of the burn

The initial step in caring for a burn victim is to remove them from the source of the burn. This is crucial because it helps prevent further injury and reduces the risk of additional burns. Ensuring the victim is safe from the heat source is vital for their well-being and is the first priority in emergency care. Once the person is away from the source of the burn, it becomes safer to assess the severity of the burn and take additional steps to provide care. After securing the victim's safety, other steps, such as applying cool water or calling for emergency medical assistance, can follow. However, these actions should only be performed after the individual is removed from the danger to prevent any further harm. This foundational knowledge is essential for effective first aid response in managing burn injuries.