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What is it?An electrical current passing through the body can stop a person breathing and disrupt the heart's activity. The casualty may still be in contact with the electricity when help arrives SymptomsThe casualty's body may still be in spasm and unable to release whatever caused the electrocution. There may be burns to the body where the current has entered and exited. The casualty may be unconscious. First aid aims- Ensure casualty can be rescued without danger to anyone else
- Disconnect casualty from electricity source
- Treat any further problems, such as burns
Actions- Don't touch casualty because they may be 'live'
- Disconnect casualty from power source, either at the mains or by pushing away whatever is conducting the current using an insulating material, for instance a wooden stick
- Check casualty's response
- Open airway
- Prepare for resuscitation
- Call 999
Further actionPrepare to treat any burnssustained by casualty.
This article was reviewed by the British Red Cross in December 2009.
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information. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.
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