Electrons move more easily through certain materials like metal, which scientists call conductors. When you touch a doorknob or something else made of metal , which has a positive charge with few electrons, the extra electrons want to jump from you to the knob. That tiny shock you feel is a result of the quick movement of these electrons.
You can think of a shock as a river of millions of electrons flying through the air. Pretty cool, huh? Static electricity happens more often during the colder seasons because the air is drier, and it's easier to build up electrons on the skin's surface. In warmer weather, the moisture in the air helps electrons move off of you more quickly so you don't get such a big static charge. So, the next time you get a little shock from touching a doorknob, you'll know that it's just electrons jumping around.
Think of it as putting a little spark in your life! On this page. Symptoms of electric shock Causes of electric shock How to help a victim of electric shock Downed powerlines Safety tips around the home How a safety switch works Where to get help. Depending on the length and severity of the shock, injuries can include: Burns to the skin Burns to internal tissues Electrical interference or damage or both to the heart, which could cause the heart to stop or beat erratically.
Always disconnect the power supply before trying to help a victim of electric shock. Symptoms of electric shock The typical symptoms of an electric shock include: Unconsciousness Difficulties in breathing or no breathing at all A weak, erratic pulse or no pulse at all Burns, particularly entrance and exit burns where the electricity entered and left the body Sudden onset of cardiac arrest. Causes of electric shock Some of the causes of electric shock include: Faulty appliances Damaged or frayed cords or extension leads Electrical appliances coming in contact with water Incorrect or deteriorated household wiring Downed powerlines Lightning strike.
How to help a victim of electric shock The first thing you must do is disconnect the power supply. It may be necessary to commence cardiopulmonary resuscitation CPR. Call triple zero for an ambulance. If their breathing is steady and they are responsive, attend to their injuries. Simple cling wrap found in most kitchens is very suitable to cover burns as long as it is not applied tightly. Never put ointments or oils onto burns. If the person has fallen from a height, try not to move them unnecessarily in case they have spinal injuries.
Only move them if there is a chance of further danger from the environment such as falling objects. Talk calmly and reassuringly to the person. Downed powerlines Sometimes, powerlines are downed in car accidents. Safety tips around the home You can reduce the risk of electric shock in your home by taking a few precautions, including: Always hire a licensed electrician for all wiring jobs.
Keep electrical appliances away from wet areas. Have safety switches installed by an electrician. Buy portable power boards with built-in safety switches. Insert safety plugs into power points not in use to stop children from inserting objects into them.
How a safety switch works A safety switch, or residual current device, is designed to save lives by monitoring power flow and making sure the flow is even.
Where to get help In an emergency, call triple zero Give feedback about this page. If you receive an electric shock, it might be difficult for you to do anything. If someone else receives a shock, keep several things in mind to both help them and keep yourself safe:. For severe shocks, a doctor may recommend staying in the hospital for a day or two so they can monitor you for any heart issues or severe injuries.
Some electric shocks can have a lasting impact on your health. For example, serious burns can leave permanent scars. And if the electrical current goes through your eyes, you may be left with cataracts. Some shocks can also cause ongoing pain, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness due to internal injuries.
If a child sustains a lip injury or burn from chewing on a cord, they may also have some heavy bleeding when the scab eventually falls off. This is normal, due to the number of arteries in the lip. If the shock seems severe, call or your local emergency number. Unconsciousness, when a person is suddenly unable to respond to stimuli, requires immediate medical attention.
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