Prior to making a continuity check, what must be done to an electrical circuit?

Before performing a continuity check on an electrical circuit, it is essential to turn off the power. This is crucial for safety reasons as it prevents electrical shock and protects both the person conducting the check and the equipment from potential damage. Turning off the power ensures that the circuit is de-energized, allowing for accurate measurement without the risk of inadvertently energizing any components that could lead to false readings or hazards.

Ensuring the power is off also allows for a safer environment to inspect the circuit visually and to make any necessary repairs or adjustments. This practice adheres to standard safety protocols in electrical work, promoting a thorough and responsible approach to troubleshooting.

While other actions such as tightening connections might be part of regular maintenance or could contribute to ensuring correct circuit operation, they are not prerequisites for a continuity check. Overloading the circuit would be detrimental and dangerous, thus reaffirming that the power must be turned off as the correct and safe procedure before conducting such tests.