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Electrical shock: First aid

Caution

  • Don't touch the injured person if he or she is still in contact with the electrical current.
  • Call 911 or your local emergency number if the source of the burn is a high-voltage wire or lightning. Don't get near high-voltage wires until the power is turned off. Overhead power lines usually aren't insulated. Stay at least 20 feet (about 6 meters) away — farther if wires are jumping and sparking.
  • Don't move a person with an electrical injury unless he or she is in immediate danger.