At the scene with downed power lines, which action should you take with conscious patients inside a car?

• A. Advise the Patients to Carefully Exit the Car
• B. Remove the Lines with a Nonconductive Object
• C. Proceed with Normal Extrication Procedures
• D. Mark Off a Danger Zone Around the Downed Lines

Answer: (D)

This question centers on keeping the scene safe from electrical hazards. Downed power lines can remain energized even if they look harmless, and electricity can arc to nearby surfaces or ground. The priority is to prevent anyone from coming into contact with the lines or creating a path for current to reach a person or the vehicle.

Marking off a danger zone around the downed lines sets a clear perimeter that keeps bystanders and responders at a safe distance. This protects conscious patients inside the car, who should avoid moving or exiting the vehicle until the area is secured and the lines are de-energized by professionals.

Advancing with the other options risks electric shock: removing lines with a nonconductive object is not reliable or safe because electricity can travel through unexpected paths; exiting the car could place someone on energized ground or create a contact point for current. Normal extrication procedures ignore the electrical hazard and could put everyone at risk. By establishing a danger zone, you control the scene safely while awaiting utility responders.