Electric Shock

Depending on its strength, an electric shock can cause a mild 'pins and needles' sensation, can burn you, or stop breathing and cause heart failure, resulting in death.

Frayed or faulty wires, defective appliances, and appliances used near water are common but preventable causes of electric shock in the home.

Warning

Before touching the victim, make sure you are safe by immediately turning off the current at the mains or power point and, if the accident involves an appliance, pulling out the plug.

If the accident entails high-voltage electricity (such as that from electric train lines or heavy machinery) stay well clear, call for help urgently, and wait for trained personnel to disconnect the power.

First aid treatment

1. If you cannot turn off the power, do not attempt to move the casualty away from the source of electricity.
2. When the casualty is clear, smother the flames on any burning garment.
3. An unconscious casualty should be placed in the lateral position; check the airway, breathing and pulse and begin expired air resuscitation (EAR) or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.
4. Give first aid for any burns.
5. seek medical aid.