When you see a conscious adult who has fallen off a ladder, what is the first thing you need to do?

Ensuring the safety of the scene is the first priority when approaching an incident involving a conscious adult who has fallen. Before providing any assistance, it is crucial to confirm that the environment is safe for both the rescuer and the victim. This involves checking for hazards such as electrical wires, unstable surfaces, or any other potential dangers that could cause further injury or create additional issues.

Once the scene is deemed safe, the rescuer should put on personal protective equipment, such as gloves, to minimize the risk of infection or contamination when providing care. Following this, obtaining consent from the victim to render aid is essential. This is not only a best practice but also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions; individuals have the right to refuse assistance.

Only after confirming the safety of the scene and obtaining consent can the rescuer move on to assess the victim’s injuries or call for help, if necessary. Taking these initial steps sets a foundation for providing effective and responsible care.