In a study carried out by the National Coroners Information System in Australia, 321 folks died of electrocution between July 2000 and October 2011. This has been recorded by the Australian coroners with 39 cases continuing under inquiry.
Electrocution in all cases could have been reduced if everybody was aware about the correct procedures when handling electric emergencies. Understanding what to do during such cases is important and could well save a life. Here are seven things one should really know in electric emergency situations.
1. If someone has been electrically surprised, you must first switch off the power source by opening the right circuit breaker or disconnect switch. If you are not certain how to do this, get someone that is able to have it done as soon as possible
If the individual was electricuted with high-voltage, outside wires, call 000 and your electricians right away. Do not touch the individual or try to separate him from the live wires. Keep at least 30 metres away from any live power lines that crumpled.
2. Do not touch the person who has come into contact with live electricity. The body is made up of 60% to 70% water and is a great conductor of electricity so the electric current may still be present thru their body. If you come in contact with the individual, you are likely to be shocked too. Making 2 victims rather than one due to an wrong approach wouldn't be beneficial.
3. If the circuit breaker cannot be found and turned off right away, utilise a dry wooden board or any non-conductor material to displace the person from the electrical current.
Some Items to Use:
- Rope
- Extension cord
- Timber Board
- Broom handle
It is important to separate the victim to the electric current as fast as possible because their survival time is very limited.
4. After the person has been safely unconnected from the power source, check his respiring and heart beat. If you know the way to do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, do it with the victim as it is necessary to keep the movement of oxygen and blood thru his body. Apply mouth-to-mouth resuscitation until a professional doctor has arrived. This will increase the survival prospects of the victim.
5. If the victim is awake, tell him to lie still until professional emergency personnel arrive on the scene. The victim may well experience limited blood circulation so keep him comfy and warm as much as practicable.
6. Don't move or touch the victim if you're suspicious of backbone or neck injury. Moving him may possibly cause more damage. Cover any burns and swelling with a sterile dressing. Do not apply any oil or salve onto burns.
7. Electrical shock victims may suffer from a coronary after hours and minutes of being shocked. It is vital to continue seeking medical assistance till the victim is out of electrical shock risk period.
These are the things to do in case of electric shock emergencies. One can avoid this kind of accident by keeping clear of exposed wiring, keeping water away from appliances and following other electric safety routines. However , accidents still occur so it's better to know what should be done for an electric shock victim. Remember, it's much better to have this information and not need it, than require this awareness and not have it.
About the Author:
www.HomeBuildersAustralia.com.au is a resorce of Professional Builders and trades including Licensed Bendigo Electricians. You can access their site by visiting www.homebuildersaustralia.com.au
{ 0 comments... read them below or add one }
Post a Comment