Electric Shock

An electric shock happens when an electric current passes through your body. This can burn both internal and external tissue and cause organ damage.

A child who has received an electric shock should be seen by a doctor because shock may cause internal damage that can’t be detected without a medical examination.

Treatment of Low Voltage Incident

Call 112/999
Do not touch patient until source isolated
Real danger to rescuer if patient still in contact with live source
Scene safety – turn off power
Reassure patient
Treat burns
Seek Medical attention always for a child
If in cardiac arrest start CPR

Treatment of High Voltage Incident

Stay at least 18 metres away from the patient
Call 999/112 for an ambulance and 1850 372 999 for ESB Networks
Ensure bystanders also stand at a safe distance from the patient
Do not approach the patient until the Electricity Supply has been turned off
Ensure the patient is disconnected from the electrical source
Carry out a primary survey
Start CPR if necessary
Treat burns (entry and exit)
Water can be used on electrical burns