Call 911 or your local emergency number if the injured person has:

• Severe burns.
• Confusion.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Heart rhythm problems.
• Cardiac arrest.
• Muscle pain and contractions.
• Seizures.
• Loss of consciousness.

Take this action right away while waiting for medical help:

• Turn off the source of electricity, if possible. If not, use a dry, nonconducting object made of cardboard, plastic or wood to move the source away from you and the injured person.

• Begin CPR if the person shows no signs of circulation, such as breathing, coughing or movement.
• Try to prevent the injured person from becoming chilled.
• Apply a bandage. Cover any burned areas with a sterile gauze bandage, if available, or a clean cloth. Don't use a blanket or towel because loose fibers can stick to the burns.

• Don't touch an injured person who is still in contact with an 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 there is immediate danger.

A person who has been injured by contact with electricity should see a healthcare professional.