What to do in Electrical Accidents

If you see a downed power line, stay at least 10 metres away and contact for help immediately.

If someone receives an electrical shock:
-Do not touch the person if she or he is still in contact with the source of electricity (the electricity will travel from their body into yours!).
-Ask someone to call an ambulance while you stay with the victim.
-If the victim has no pulse, perform CPR.
-If the victim has been burned, avoid touching those areas or any burned clothing. You may gently apply cold water to burned areas until professional help arrives.

If a motor vehicle has been involved in an accident with an electrical pole or transformer (green box), treat the vehicle and anything it is in contact with as energized. If an energized line has come down on the vehicle, the driver should stay inside until help arrives unless there is a fire.

If they must jump free, do so with both feet together. Then shuffle away, keeping both feet close together. Never contact the ground and your vehicle at the same time.

Treat electrical fires with caution. Keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it. Keep the area around electrical equipment clear of combustibles such as sawdust, paper, cardboard, and flammable liquids. Prevent oil and dirt buildup on electrical appliances. This situation can cause electrical equipment to overheat and short circuit. Electrical fires are frequently caused by overloaded equipment and circuits. This can cause insulation to burn, create sparks, and leave exposed wires.