When poison is on a victim's skin or in their eyes, what is the most important step to take?

Washing the affected area with large amounts of clean water is the most critical step when poison is present on a victim's skin or in their eyes. Water effectively dilutes and flushes away the harmful substance, minimizing its potential to cause further damage to the skin or the eyes. This step should be implemented as soon as possible, as timely washing can significantly reduce the absorption of the toxin into the body and alleviate pain or irritation.

In the case of contact with the eyes, immediate irrigation is crucial, as the eyes are sensitive and can sustain serious injury from certain substances. Rinsing with clean water can help prevent long-term damage and preserve vision.

Other options might suggest treatments that could aggravate the situation or delay essential first aid. For example, applying a cream could trap the poison against the skin, whereas covering it with a cloth could also worsen the exposure by preventing the water from effectively washing it away. Seeking immediate medical assistance is important but should come after the initial emergency response of washing the area, making it a secondary step rather than the primary action to take.