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The severity of electrical shocks can range from a mild tingling sensation to severe injury and death.
You can save someone's life and prevent injury to yourself if you take PROPER EMERGENCY ACTIONS when someone is seriously shocked: - Unplug the appliance, or turn off the electric power at a fuse-box or circuit breaker box.
- If you cannot turn the power off quickly, pull the person away from the electrical source using a non-conducting material such as wood or plastic. You could use a broom handle, a wooden chair, a dry rope, or a dry towel or sheet. If the person is still in contact with the electrical source, and you touch them, you may also be shocked.
- Check to see if the person is breathing. If they are not, begin rescue breathing and check for a pulse.
- If the person does not have a pulse, begin CPR.
- Call for help by dialing 000. Have someone else do this if you are administering CPR.
IF THERE IS A BURN: - Remove any smouldering clothing to help stop the burning process. Leave burned clothing in place if it is not smouldering.
- Remove any jewellery from the affected area.
- Immerse the burned area in cold water for at least 10 minutes.
- Do not apply any ointment, medicine, or spray to the burn. Do not put butter on the burn.
- Do not apply a bandage to the wound - especially cotton as this may stick to the wound and it will be very painful to remove.
- Keep the burned area clean. Avoid touching the burn.
- Anyone who has suffered an electrical burn should be seen at an Accident and Emergency Centre to assess the severity of deep tissue damage.
YOU CAN HELP TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK BY DOING THE FOLLOWING: - Beware of all electrical power lines, and stay clear of them while trimming trees and using gardening tools.
- If you have a young child, protect all of your outlets with covers.
- Install ground fault interrupters in your bathrooms and on outside outlets.
Article #4916
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