Electric Shock: How to Help Safely

When someone is shocked, the instinct is to grab them. That’s how rescuers become second victims. The first job is to make sure the electricity is off or the person is clear of it. Then call 911, and be ready to start CPR.

• Everyone

Step by step

1. Don’t touch the person if they may still be in contact with the source.
2. Shut off the power at the breaker, disconnect or plug, if you can do it safely.
3. If you can’t shut it off and it’s low voltage (like a tool or cord), push the source or person away with a dry, non-conductive object such as a dry wooden board or fiberglass pole, while standing on something dry.
4. Call 911. Say it’s an electrical injury.
5. Check breathing. If they’re not breathing normally, start CPR and send for the AED. See CPR & AEDs.
6. Treat for shock: keep them lying down and warm. Don’t move them if they fell, unless they’re in danger. See Spinal Injuries.
7. Cover burns loosely with a clean, dry dressing. See Burn First Aid.

Every shock needs medical care

A person who seems fine after a shock can still have hidden injuries: heart rhythm problems that show up later, internal burns along the path of the current, and muscle damage. Anyone who gets more than a minor tingle should be checked by a doctor the same day, and the incident should be reported. See Electrical Injuries.

Signs that mean call 911

• Unconscious, confused, or not breathing normally
• Irregular heartbeat, chest pain
• Burns, especially entry and exit wounds
• Muscle pain or contractions, seizures
• Contact with high voltage or a fall after the shock

Be ready

• Know where the breakers and disconnects are for your work area
• Know where the nearest AED is
• CPR-trained workers on the crew
• Dry, non-conductive rescue hook or pole where electrical work happens

Last updated: October 2, 2026