Safe management of a patient in contact with a live electrical source

Switch off or disconnect the source of electricity

Remember! Look first. Do not touch. It is possible that the victim is still in contact with the electrical source. If you touch the person the current may pass through you. Turn off the electrical source if this is possible.

If not, carefully move the electrical source away from both of you using a non-conducting object (chair, handle of brush, etc) made of wood, cardboard or plastic. You may also stand on non-conducting material (cardboard box, newspapers, etc) while pushing the source of electricity away from the victim. Ensure both the object and material that you use are dry.

Once the electrical source has been moved away or the current has been switched off at the mains and you are confident that the victim is no longer in contact with the electricity, call the emergency services on 112 or 999.

While you are waiting for the emergency services, proceed with a primary survey. You may need to treat for shock. Cover the victim with a blanket and remain with him/her until help arrives.