In Case of Electric Shock
Electrical shocks can stop a person’s breathing or heart and cause burns. Here are some first aid tips your emergency crews should follow in the event of an electric shock.
- Don’t touch victims if they are still in contact with the electrical source.
- Unplug the appliance or turn off the power at the control panel.
- If you can’t turn off the power, use a piece of wood, like a broom handle, dry rope or dry clothing, to separate the victim from the power source.
- Unconscious victims should be placed on their side to allow drainage of fluids. Do not move the victim if there is a suspicion of neck or spine injuries unless absolutely necessary.
- If the victim is not breathing, apply mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If the victim has no pulse, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Then cover the victim with a blanket to maintain body heat, keep the victim’s head low and get medical attention.
