Electrical burns can be caused either by low or high voltage current. High voltage currents can jump distances of up to 18 meters (known as “arcing”). In such instances do not approach the casualty; stay at least 25 meters away until the power source has been turned off and contact emergency services.
With all electrical burns, there may be visible wounds on the skin where the electric current has entered and shocked the body. Internal damage to the body may also have occured and can range from an irregular heart beat to cardiac arrest.
How to treat someone with electical burns
If you discover someone that you suspect has had an electric shock, follow the 5 tips below to ensure not only the safety of yourself and those around you but also give the victim the best change of surviving a situation that can easily cause death.
- Disconnect / switch off the power supply to the area. Approach the scene only if you are sure it is safe to do so.
- Assess whether the patient is breathing, checking their airway to ensure they haven’t swallowed their tongue. Be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
- Treat any burns you find appropriately.
- If the patient is awake, reassure them. Calming the patient is a major factor whilst waiting for medical assistance.
- Request an ambulance. This could be the difference between life and death.
At TutorCare we offer a wide range of courses dealing with Emergency First Aid in the work place. For more information on course specifics please take a look here – First Aid Courses
