We cannot do without electricity; we need it to do most of our daily tasks. However, as essential as electricity is, it can be very dangerous and life-threatening when someone is exposed to it. Annually, about 1,000 people die from electrical injuries in the United States, out of which 400 are from high-voltage exposure. Aside from that, at least 30,000 non-fatal electrical incidents are recorded annually across states in the US, including Colorado.

When there has been an electrical accident, the resulting injuries can range from minor to severe to fatal. Meanwhile, these injuries can either be short-term or long-term, having significant impacts on the victim and their family. Due to the risks involved, it can be hard to help someone being electrocuted, which is why doing it safely is paramount. If you’ve been injured in such an incident, speaking to attorney Amy Gaiennie of Amy G Injury Firm can help you get your dues.

What to do for the Victim in an Electrical Accident: Immediate Steps to Take for the Victim

Electricity is dangerous, regardless of the size of the voltage; a small voltage of electricity is enough to kill a person. Therefore, when you witness an electrical accident, do not jump to the rescue unless you know the different ways to help.

Method 1: Disconnect the Victim

First, turn off the power if possible and safe – turn it off even if the person is no longer being electrocuted. If you cannot turn off the power, use a non-conducting item to disconnect the victim from the electrical source.

DO NOT attempt to touch the person with bare hands or metal because the current can pass from their body to yours. An example of a non-conducting item you can use to disconnect the victim is wood; plastic is also perfect. Once you have disconnected the victim, use the wood to push the electrical danger away from them to prevent further shock.

Method 2: Call 911

Another way you can help the individual being electrocuted is to call 911 immediately. You might want to do this first, in fact, because trying to help them yourself puts you in danger. Moreover, the victim has likely suffered injuries, even if you cannot see them, and getting medical care is paramount.

Taking Precautions

When a power line electrocutes a person, you need to stay at least 20 feet away from the power line. If the lines are jumping or sparking, move even further away, maybe even completely out of the scene.

You may feel guilty about standing back and watching someone being electrocuted, but you cannot help them if you also get electrocuted. Therefore, ensure you do not approach the victim or the power line until the electric utility company cuts power. Also, if you see water around, do not step on or get in the water if it is still connected to a power source.

When it is Safe for You as a Third-party and the Victim

Once you have successfully disconnected the victim from the power source and it is safe, check to see if they are breathing. If they are not breathing and the heart is not beating, start CPR, starting with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If they vomit, roll them onto their side; if they faint or fall, do not touch them.

Once the victim is conscious or you can hear their heartbeat, the next thing is to assess their injuries and cognition. Next, check the victim for burns, muscle contractions, numbness or pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, and seizures. If you see any of these symptoms, alongside a racing heartbeat and confusion, the victim needs immediate medical attention; call 911 immediately.

As you wait patiently for the ambulance, endeavor to keep the victim warm by covering them with a blanket or coat. However, avoid placing a dirty or fibrous material or whatever will stick to the wounds over their burns to avoid an infection.

Conclusion

A lot of things can happen to a person who is exposed to electric current, ranging from minor effects to even death. If you or a loved one was a victim of electrocution in Colorado, you may want to seek a lawyer for your legal options. You can file a lawsuit against the person or business that caused or contributed to the accident to get compensation.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical or legal advice. In the event of an electrical accident, it is important to seek immediate professional assistance from emergency responders and medical professionals. Always exercise caution and prioritize safety when handling electrical emergencies.

Published by Joseph T.