When providing assistance to an injured person, what is a key point to remember?

When providing assistance to an injured person, it's essential to remember that safety is paramount, and moving the injured individual should be avoided unless there is an imminent danger, such as a fire, explosion, or other hazardous conditions.

Moving a person can potentially worsen their injuries, especially if they have been hurt in a way that affects the spine or any critical body parts. This principle aligns with emergency response best practices which emphasize assessing the situation and providing care without unnecessary risks to the patient’s existing condition.

For instance, leaving the person to find help might expose them to further danger or delay crucial medical care. Similarly, moving them to a more comfortable spot could exacerbate injuries they may have sustained. Providing food and water is generally not advisable as it might lead to complications, especially if medical intervention is required soon after the injury occurs.

Thus, the correct approach is to ensure the environment is safe for the injured person, provide reassurance, and wait for professional help to arrive unless there is a critical reason to move them.