# What is the first step to take when seeing someone suffering from an electric shock? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/first-step-electrical-shock-first-aid Language: en Category: first_aid Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.549Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.549Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/first-step-electrical-shock-first-aid When you see someone suffering from an electric shock, the first and most important step is to ensure your own safety first and foremost. Do not touch the injured person directly, as the electric current may still be flowing through them, which could cause the shock to transfer to you. You must first turn off the source of electricity if possible, or move the injured person away from the source using a non-conductive object. ## Securing the Accident Scene Before approaching the injured person, you must ensure that the power source has been completely disconnected. If possible, turn off the electricity from the main breaker or fuse box. If you cannot reach the power source safely, use a non-conductive object, such as a piece of dry wood, plastic, or cardboard, to push the electrical source away from the injured person or to push the person away from the source. Always remember [\[3\]]() "Look first. Do not touch". ## Calling for Emergency Help After disconnecting the injured person from the electrical source, call emergency services immediately (such as 911 or your local ambulance number) or ask someone else to do so. Even if the injury appears minor, electric shocks can cause internal damage that does not appear immediately [\[1\]](). These damages may include heart rhythm disturbances or damage to internal organs, bones, muscles, and nerves [\[1\]](). ## Assessing the Injured Person and Providing First Aid Once the injured person is safe and away from the electricity source, assess their condition: [\[3\]]() - **Breathing and pulse:** Check if the person is breathing and has a pulse. If breathing or the pulse has stopped, or seems dangerously slow and shallow, immediately begin CPR if you are trained to do so. - **Signs of shock:** If the person is pale, feels faint, or shows other signs of shock, have them lie down with their legs slightly elevated and their head slightly lower than the trunk of the body. - **Burns:** Do not touch burns, do not attempt to pop blisters, and do not remove burnt clothing. Electric shock can cause burns inside the body, so it is essential that the person is examined by a doctor [\[3\]](). ## The Importance of Medical Follow-up Anyone who has suffered an electric shock, even if the injury appears minor, should see a doctor as soon as possible. There may be internal injuries that do not show clear external signs [\[1\]](). The severity of the injuries depends on several factors, including the strength of the electric current, the type of current, the path the current took through the body, and the duration of exposure [\[1\]](). For more information on prevention and first aid for electrical injuries, you can visit [Home Electrical Injuries: First Aid and Prevention for Children and Adults (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [What to Do to Protect Yourself From Electrical Hazards]() - [Electrical Injuries]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/first-step-electrical-shock-first-aid#answer