First Aid for Electrical Shock

ByJanis Updated

Electric shock can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening injuries. The severity depends on several factors, including the type of electrical current (AC or DC), the voltage level, the duration of contact, the pathway the current takes through the body, the presence of moisture, and the person’s overall health. Even low-voltage shocks can lead to serious complications, especially if the current passes through the heart, brain, or muscles.

Some shocks cause clear injuries like burns or unconsciousness, while others may leave no visible signs but still damage internal tissues, nerves, or organs. Quick and proper action can help save lives and prevent long-term complications.

What Is Electric Shock?

An electric shock happens when an electrical current flows through the body. It may result from:

  • Household appliances
  • Power tools
  • Wiring accidents
  • Exposed electrical cords
  • Lightning strikes
  • Contact with high-voltage sources like power lines

Electric shock can cause burns, muscle spasms, nerve damage, heart rhythm problems, or respiratory arrest, depending on the strength and path of the current.

Signs and Symptoms of Electric Shock

Symptoms may appear right away or develop later. Some may be obvious, while others are harder to detect. Common symptoms include:

  • Burns at entry or exit points (hands, feet, or other body parts)
  • Muscle pain or spasms
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Confusion or unconsciousness
  • Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
  • Irregular heartbeat or chest pain
  • Seizures
  • Weakness or paralysis
  • Hearing or vision problems (if the shock affects the head)

Even mild symptoms like dizziness, a brief blackout, or confusion should not be ignored, as internal injuries can still occur.

When to Call Emergency Services

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if:

  • The person has been exposed to high-voltage electricity.
  • They are unconscious or not breathing.
  • There are visible burns.
  • The person is having a seizure or muscle spasms.
  • They have chest pain or signs of a heart problem.
  • They are confused, weak, or showing signs of shock.

Electric shock can quickly affect the heart and brain. Fast medical care can reduce the risk of death or lasting damage.

First Aid for Electric Shock

Step 1: Ensure Scene Safety

Before helping, make sure you are not at risk.

  • Do not touch the person if they are still in contact with the electrical source.
  • Turn off the power at the source—unplug the device or turn off the circuit breaker.
  • If you can’t shut off the power, use a non-conductive object like a dry wooden broom handle or plastic stick to move the person away from the source.
  • Stand on something dry and non-conductive, like a rubber mat or folded clothing, especially if the ground is wet.

Once the person is no longer in contact with electricity, it’s safe to help.

Step 2: Check for Breathing and Pulse

  • If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, begin CPR immediately if you’re trained to do so.
  • Continue CPR until emergency help arrives or the person starts breathing again.
  • If they are breathing, keep them still and monitor their condition.

Step 3: Treat Burns and Injuries

  • Remove smoldering clothing, but do not pull away clothing stuck to burned skin.
  • Cover burns with a clean, dry cloth or sterile bandage. Do not apply ointments, butter, or ice.
  • Elevate burned limbs slightly if there is no suspicion of broken bones.

Internal injuries from electrical shock may not be visible, so all shock victims should be checked by a medical provider, even if they seem fine.

What Not to Do

  • Do not touch the person until the electrical source is turned off or they are safely separated.
  • Do not use metal or wet items to separate the person from the power source.
  • Do not move the person unless necessary for safety—especially if you suspect a neck or spine injury.
  • Do not use ice, ointments, or home remedies on electrical burns.
  • Do not delay medical attention even if the injuries seem minor.

Special Considerations

Children and Toddlers

Children may put fingers or objects into outlets or chew on wires. Look for signs like burns around the mouth, irritability, or unexplained pain. Even a small household shock should be evaluated by a doctor.

Lightning Strike

Lightning is a high-voltage electrical discharge that can stop the heart or breathing in an instant. If someone is struck by lightning:

  • Call emergency services immediately.
  • Begin CPR if needed.
  • Move the person to shelter.
  • Treat burns or injuries.

Note: It is safe to touch lightning strike victims; they do not carry a charge.

Recovery and Follow-Up

After an electrical injury, a healthcare provider may run tests such as:

  • ECG (electrocardiogram) to check heart rhythm.
  • Blood tests for muscle and kidney damage.
  • X-rays or CT scans to check for fractures or internal injuries.
  • Burn care evaluation for wound treatment.

Even mild shocks may result in delayed symptoms like memory problems, anxiety, or chronic pain. Follow-up care is important for recovery.

Preventing Electric Shock

  • Keep electrical appliances away from water.
  • Cover unused outlets with safety caps, (especially with children).
  • Avoid using damaged cords or frayed wires.
  • Unplug appliances when not in use.
  • Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoors.
  • Hire qualified electricians for home repairs.
  • Teach children about electrical safety.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.