Causes

You can suffer an electric shock indoors or out, whether it’s from accidentally touching a frayed electric cord or being struck by lightning. Even a mild shock can cause burns, and a major shock can be fatal.

Prevention

• Use child safety plugs in all outlets.
• Keep electrical cords out of reach.
• Don’t use electrical appliances while showering or when wet.
• Don’t touch electrical appliances and faucets at the same time.
• Have your home’s wiring inspected every 10 years.
• Don’t talk on the phone or use electrical appliances during a thunderstorm.
• If you’re outdoors during a thunderstorm, seek shelter. Avoid water, high ground, open spaces, light poles, metal fences, trees, and tents.

First Aid

• Call 911 and report a medical emergency.
• Do not touch or get within 20 yards of someone who is being electrocuted. This electricity can leap across gaps and strike you. Don’t try to rescue the person until the current has been shut off. If possible, turn off the electric current by flipping the main breaker or removing the fuse.
• You may approach a person who has been struck by lightning right away. Unless the person is in immediate danger, do not try to move him or her.
• When the person is no longer touching a live wire, check to see that he or she is breathing and has a heartbeat. If the person has stopped breathing and you have been trained in CPR, begin it immediately.
• Cover the burned area with dry, sterile dressings.
• To prevent shock, lay the person on a flat surface and raise his or her feet 8 to 12 inches. Do not raise the person’s feet if you suspect head, neck, back, or leg injuries. Cover the person with a blanket or coat to maintain body temperature. Stay with the person until professional medical assistance arrives.