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What to do if someone receives an electrical shock
What do you do if someone else receives a serious shock from electrical equipment? It depends on the circumstances. The first rule is never to touch someone while they're being shocked. You will simply get shocked, as well. If someone is being shocked by an appliance or piece of equipment, try to shut off the power. Know where your breaker box is and label the circuits to make it easy to shut down power as needed. In an emergency, the fastest thing to do may be simply to throw the main breaker and shut off all the electricity to the home. If you cannot shut off the power, use a dry wooden stick, such as broom, to try to knock the victim away from the source of the shock. But take care not to step into water or touch any metal that may be in contact with the person, appliance or equipment. If the shock is being delivered by a downed power line or another piece of electrical equipment that delivers power to your home, your safest course is to stay away. Call the utility who owns the line or law enforcement authorities to report the problem and get emergency medical assistance right away. Do not try to move the shock victim. When you are sure that the person is no longer in contact with the power source, check for breathing and pulse, and perform CPR if needed.
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