What to do in case of Electric shock
An electric shock can be very serious. Even without any visible signs or symptoms, internal injuries may be present.
Dial 911, even if the person appears to be okay.
The 911 dispatcher will tell you what to do.
Before help arrives
Until the 911 dispatcher gives you further instructions, take the following precautions to ensure your safety and the victim's safety:
- Do not touch the victim if electricity may still be present.
- Do not move the victim.
- Tell others to stay back.
Medical evaluation required
Even if there are no visible injuries, the person must be evaluated in an emergency department. If possible, make sure someone accompanies the victim and explains the circumstances of the incident.
Pregnant women must always be evaluated.
Electric shock may be harmless to the mother, but it can pose a risk to the unborn child, who is immersed in amniotic fluid.
If the person's condition worsens
- Loss of consciousness
- Not breathing
- Not responding
Begin CPR only if the 911 dispatcher confirms that it is safe to do so. Continue until emergency services take over.
When the situation is under control
Possible effects of electric shock
Electric shock can cause tingling, muscle spasms and external or internal burns that can affect muscles and organs. Some effects may appear several hours after the incident, including heart problems. The nervous system can also be affected, sometimes for several weeks, months or years.
Other unexpected effects include memory problems, emotional changes, vision problems, balance problems and tinnitus.
Electrical burns
Electrical burns are sometimes not visible but can conceal internal injuries. The presence of black spots or small pits on the skin may indicate more severe lesions.
In case of a burn:
- Do not touch the burned areas.
- Do not pop the blisters.
- Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth.
In all cases, a medical evaluation is necessary after an electric shock.
Support and guidance
Experiencing or witnessing such an incident can cause stress, anxiety or emotional distress. Don't hesitate to ask for support.
Info-Social 811
To speak with a psychosocial worker, available 24/7.
Personal network
Talking to a loved one or someone you trust can help in the days that follow the incident.
FAQ
Our answers to the most common questions.
Some shocks can be mild. However, even without visible signs or symptoms, an electric shock can cause internal injuries or heart problems.
No. Even if it seems minor at first glance, an electrical burn can cause significant internal injuries. Signs such as black spots or small pits on the skin may indicate a deeper injury.
Dial 911 no matter how serious the shock. The 911 dispatcher will tell you what to do.
Even a mild shock can have consequences. Monitor for symptoms and consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Yes. The absence of pain does not mean there is no injury. A medical evaluation is strongly recommended.
Dial 911 immediately. Anyone who receives an electric shock should be examined promptly by a healthcare professional, even if they have no visible signs or symptoms, as there may be internal injuries.
Dial 911 immediately. A pregnant woman and her unborn child must be examined immediately by a healthcare professional, even if the mother has no visible signs or symptoms.
An electric shock may seem harmless to the mother, but it can pose a risk to the fetus, which is immersed in amniotic fluid. Since the fluid has a different electrical resistance, the fetus is exposed to a stronger current than the mother.
