When approaching an incident involving a visually impaired person, which action should be prioritized?

Prioritizing verbalizing instructions clearly when approaching an incident involving a visually impaired person is crucial for several reasons. First, clear verbal communication helps establish trust and ensures the individual understands the situation they are in. It provides them with the necessary information to navigate their environment safely.

Additionally, by using clear and descriptive language, you can convey important details about the surroundings, potential hazards, and alternative routes, which helps the person make informed decisions. This approach respects their autonomy and enhances their ability to respond to the incident effectively.

In contrast, gesturing for someone to follow can create confusion, as a visually impaired person may not understand your intentions without context. Leaving the person alone can lead to increased anxiety and further complicates their situation. Responding with unnecessary urgency may induce panic rather than providing the support and calm guidance they need in such circumstances. Thus, verbalizing instructions clearly is the most appropriate and supportive action to take.