🚨 Step 1: Do NOT Touch the Child If They’re Still in Contact with Electricity

If the child is still touching the electrical source:

❌ Do NOT grab them with your bare hands.
❌ Do NOT touch water nearby.

You could become part of the electrical circuit and be injured as well.

Instead:

✔ Turn off the power at the breaker panel immediately.
✔ If you cannot access the breaker, use a non-conductive object (wooden broom handle, plastic chair) to separate the child from the source.

🚑 Step 2: Call Emergency Services Immediately

Even if the child appears okay, call 911 right away.

Electrical injuries can cause:

• Internal burns
• Heart rhythm disturbances
• Nervous system damage
• Delayed complications

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, many electrical injuries involve internal damage that is not visible from the outside.

Always take electrical shock seriously.

❤️ Step 3: Check Breathing and Responsiveness

After power is disconnected:

• Check if the child is breathing.
• Check for a pulse.
• If trained, begin CPR if necessary.

Electrical shock can disrupt heart rhythm.

The American Heart Association recommends immediate CPR if a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

🔥 Step 4: Treat Visible Burns Carefully

Electrical burns often appear small on the outside but may be severe internally.

If you see burns:

✔ Do not apply ice
✔ Do not apply ointments
✔ Cover loosely with sterile gauze
✔ Wait for medical professionals

⚠️ Step 5: Even If They “Seem Fine,” Get Medical Evaluation

Sometimes children cry briefly and appear normal afterward.

But electrical shock can cause:

• Internal tissue damage
• Irregular heartbeat
• Muscle injury
• Neurological symptoms

Medical evaluation is critical after any significant electrical contact.

🚨 When It’s a Severe Emergency

Call 911 immediately if you notice:

• Loss of consciousness
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Severe burns
• Chest pain
• Confusion

Electrical injuries are unpredictable — never assume it’s minor.

After the Emergency: Identify the Source

Once the child is safe and receiving care, it’s important to determine:

• What caused the shock?
• Was the outlet damaged?
• Was a cord frayed?
• Was the circuit overloaded?

The National Fire Protection Association reports that electrical failures are a leading cause of residential fires, often involving damaged wiring or improper installations.

A licensed electrician should inspect the system before the outlet or circuit is used again.

Prevention Is Always Better Than Reaction

To reduce risk:

✔ Install tamper-resistant outlets
✔ Upgrade to GFCI protection
✔ Replace damaged wiring
✔ Avoid extension cord misuse
✔ Schedule periodic electrical inspections

Final Thoughts

Electrical injuries are terrifying — but preparation saves lives.

Knowing how to respond calmly and quickly can make all the difference in an emergency.

And preventing the hazard in the first place is always the safest path.