What is the first step in the seven-step first aid guidelines for pesticide poisoning?

• A. Protect yourself from exposure
• B. Call poison center
• C. Check if victim is breathing
• D. Tell medical personnel pesticide name and number

Answer: (A)

Protecting yourself from exposure is the first step because your safety determines whether you can help at all. Pesticides can enter the body through skin, eyes, or inhalation, so before you approach the victim you should minimize your own risk by using available protective gear and moving away from the contaminated area if possible. This scene-safety principle means you don’t proceed to checking the person’s condition or calling for help until you’ve secured your own protection and the area, so you don’t become a second victim or carry contamination to others.

After you’ve ensured safety, you can assess breathing and responsiveness, call poison control for guidance, and relay important details like the pesticide involved if you have them. Providing the pesticide name and product number to medical personnel is crucial, but it comes after you’ve protected yourself and the scene.