If the skin is burned by pesticides, what should you do first?

The correct answer is to enter the shower and then remove clothing because immediate action is critical when dealing with chemical burns, such as those caused by pesticides. The first step in this scenario is to wash the affected skin with plenty of water to dilute and remove the chemical, minimizing further damage to the skin.

Using a shower allows for a continuous flow of water, which is more effective in flushing out any residual pesticide from the skin. If clothing is still in contact with the skin, it could trap the pesticide and increase the burning effect. Therefore, after getting in the shower, removing any contaminated clothing is essential, as this helps in preventing prolonged exposure.

In contrast, applying ice directly to the burn can cause further skin damage and tissue injury. Also, simply covering the burn with a dry towel may not address the contamination issue as effectively as rinsing with water. Finally, while waiting for medical help to arrive might be necessary in some cases, it is vital to take immediate action yourself to ensure the best possible outcome for the affected person.