Responding to an Electrical Emergency

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Prompt action can save lives in the case of electrical emergencies:

Electrical Injuries:

  • Move the victim away from power safely…NEVER TOUCH A PERSON WHO IS IN CONTACT WITH A SOURCE OF ELECTRICITY.
  • Turn off the power before touching the victim, if possible.
  • If you cannot turn the power off, use a non-conducting tool, such as a rope or wooden stick, to move the person.
  • Electricity always looks for the easiest path to the ground and can flow through your body if you are between the electric circuit and ground. If you are not touching the ground, but touching something that is in contact with the ground (tree, ladder, victim, etc.), you are still in danger.
  • If the victim is touching a power line, stay clear and call for help.

After the victim is away from the power source:

  • Check breathing and pulse. Give rescue breathing or CPR when necessary  if you’ve been trained. Otherwise, get immediate medical help.
  • Continue rescue breathing or CPR until medical help arrives.
  • Treat minor burns at the point of contact with cool water, then cover with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Cover serious burns with a sterile dry cloth and get immediate medical attention.
  • Never use ointment, ice, or butter on a burn.
  • Never try to remove clothing from burned skin.
  • Treat victim for shock by keeping him or her lying down with feet elevated until help arrives.

KEMI does not assume liability for the content of information contained herein. Safety and health remain your responsibility. This information is to be used for informational purposes only and not intended to be exhaustive or a substitute for proper training, supervision or manufacturers’ instructions/recommendations. KEMI, by publication of this information, does not assume liability for damage or injury arising from reliance upon it. Compliance with this information is not a guarantee or warranty that you will be in conformity with any laws or regulations nor does it ensure the absolute safety of any person, place or object, including, but not limited to, you, your occupation, employees, customers or place of business.

 

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