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Which of the following steps should NOT be followed to break the circuit when a person comes in contact with an electric current?

1) Turn off the power source immediately
2) Use a non-conductive object to push the person away from the circuit
3) Call for medical help
4) Wait for the person to let go of the circuit

User Leviathan
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The correct answer is option 4) Wait for the person to let go of the circuit.

Step-by-step explanation:

The step that should NOT be followed to break the circuit when a person comes in contact with an electric current is "Wait for the person to let go of the circuit". This is because when a person is experiencing electrical shock, they may be subject to the "can't let go" effect, where sustained muscular contractions caused by the current prevent them from releasing the conductor.

Instead, the correct immediate actions are to turn off the power source immediately, use a non-conductive object to separate the person from the circuit, and to call for medical help. Using a non-conductive object such as a piece of wood or plastic to push the person away can help avoid direct contact with the electric current, thereby reducing the risk of the rescuer being electrocuted.

It is essential to adopt safety precautions such as using insulated shoes to prevent a pathway for current flow through the body, especially when dealing with high-power electric circuits. When working with electrical systems, one should also work 'one-handed' or 'keep one hand in your pocket' to reduce the likelihood of a current path through the heart.

User Corinna
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