Injury to the body from direct contact with a high-voltage source.
The danger from an electrical shock depends on:
Voltage
Length of time in contact with the source
Overall health
Electricity's path through your body
Type of current (an alternating current is often more harmful than a direct current)
Symptoms:
Loss of consciousness
Muscle spasms
Numbness or tingling
Breathing problems
Headache
Problems with vision or hearing
Burns
Seizures
Irregular heartbeat
Plan of Action:
Caution:
Don't touch an injured person who is still in contact with an electrical current.
Call 911 or your local emergency number if the source of the burn is a high-voltage wire or lightning. Don't get near high-voltage wires until the power is turned off. Overhead power lines usually aren't insulated. Stay at least 20 feet (about 6 meters) away — farther if wires are jumping and sparking.
Don't move a person with an electrical injury unless there is immediate danger.
When to seek emergency care:
Call 911 or your local emergency number if the injured person experiences:
Severe burns
Confusion
Difficulty breathing
Heart rhythm problems
Cardiac arrest
Muscle pain and contractions
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:
Turn off the source of electricity, if possible. If not, use a dry, nonconducting object made of cardboard, plastic or wood to move the source away from you and the injured person.
Begin CPR if the person shows no signs of circulation, such as breathing, coughing or movement.
Try to prevent the injured person from becoming chilled.
Apply a bandage. Cover any burned areas with a sterile gauze bandage, if available, or a clean cloth. Don't use a blanket or towel, because loose fibers can stick to the burns.
A person who has been injured by contact with electricity should be seen by a health care provider.
