Electric Shock Guide

Electric Shock — Electrocution Response

How to safely respond when someone is injured by electric current.

Do NOT Touch the Person Until the Power Source is Disconnected

Electricity can travel through the victim's body to you. Turn off power at the source, unplug the device, or use a dry wooden or plastic object to separate them from the current. Call 911/112 immediately.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Ensure Your Own Safety

Do NOT touch the person if they are still in contact with the power source. Stand on a dry surface. For high-voltage lines, stay at least 20 feet away and call the power company.

2

Disconnect the Power

Turn off the power at the circuit breaker, fuse box, or unplug the appliance. If you cannot disconnect, use a dry wooden broom handle, rubber mat, or plastic object to push the person away from the source.

3

Call Emergency Services

Call 911/112 immediately. All electrical injuries need medical evaluation — internal damage is often worse than external burns suggest.

4

Check for Breathing and Pulse

If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, begin CPR immediately. Electrical shock can stop the heart.

5

Treat Burns

Cover electrical burns with a sterile, non-stick bandage. Do not apply water or ointments. Look for two burn marks — entry and exit wounds.

6

Monitor for Shock

Keep the person lying down, warm, and still. Watch for pale skin, rapid pulse, confusion, or loss of consciousness. Elevate legs unless spinal injury is suspected.

Do's and Don'ts

Do's

  • Turn off power before approaching the victim
  • Use dry, non-conductive materials to separate them
  • Begin CPR if no breathing/pulse
  • All electrical injuries need hospital evaluation

Don'ts

  • Don't touch the person while they're connected to the source
  • Don't use wet or metal objects to separate them
  • Don't apply water to electrical burns
  • Don't move them if a fall or spinal injury is suspected

Aftercare

Electrical injuries can cause internal damage (heart arrhythmias, muscle/nerve damage) not visible externally. An ECG and blood tests are essential.
Follow up with a doctor for monitoring. Delayed complications (kidney failure from muscle breakdown) can occur days later.