In basic terms, electricity naturally tries to flow to the earth or ground through any and all materials that will conduct an electrical current. [2] X Research source Certain compounds, like wood and glass, are poor conductors of electricity. Other materials, like seawater and many metals, conduct very well. The human body is able to conduct a current largely due to the amount of sodium and water in the body, and an electric shock happens when electricity flows through parts of the body. [3] X Research source This happens most often when a direct source of electricity is exposed to human contact. It may also flow into a person through another conductor, like a pool of water or a metal pole. [4] X Research source To learn more about electricity and the cause of electric shock, read about it here or ask a trusted electrician.
There are essentially two types of electricians you can hire, “master” electricians and “journeyman” electricians. Both types are usually licensed by the state - but not always. Master electricians generally own businesses and can employ other licensed electricians and helpers or apprentices, while journeyman electricians can work for a master electrician or be self-employed and hire a single helper or apprentice. The rules of what each type of electrician may do and may not do varies by state, county or locality.
There will be a main electrical panel somewhere in your home (usually in a basement or garage). This panel has a simple on/off switch that allows you to cut the flow of electricity to your entire house. Make sure the switch on this panel is flipped to “off” before attempting any repairs. [7] X Research source
Do not use GFCI for inductive or capacitive loads such as heavy-duty electrical motors or space heaters. These will trigger the GFCI and disconnect the load.
Avoid touching a bare wire that may be conducting a current. Avoid overloading power strips and other receptacles with multiple plugs. Using only two plugs per outlet lessens the risk of shock and fire. [10] X Research source Utilize three-prong plugs whenever possible. The third prong, which grounds the electrical current, should never be removed. Never assume that someone else turned off the power source. Always check for yourself!
Never use an electrical appliance while in the bath or shower. [11] X Research source If your toaster or another electric appliance is near your kitchen sink, never use the running water and the appliance at the same time. Keep it unplugged when not in use. [12] X Research source Store outdoor electrical equipment in a place where it will be kept dry, like a garage shelf. [13] X Research source If a plugged-in appliance falls into water, do not attempt to retrieve it until you turn off power to the corresponding circuit. Once the power is off, you may retrieve the device. Once it is dry, it can be evaluated by an electrician to see if it is suitable for future use. [14] X Research source
Sparking Issuing of small shocks Frayed or damaged cords Heat from electrical outlets Recurrent short-circuiting These are only a few signs of wear and tear. If something else seems strange, contact an electrician. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
You may need to reset your circuit breakers as well. To do this, flip the switch on each individual breaker to “off”, then flip it back to “on”. [17] X Research source
Understand that the key difference between an adapter and a transformer is that an adapter just allows the appliance to be plugged in, but a transformer steps the voltage to the correct voltage. For chargers, an adapter is fine, but for laundry machines, kitchen appliances, hairdryers, and other appliances without a built-in transformer, use a transformer.
Again, there should be a main electric panel for the entire facility. Find this panel and flip the switch to off. [19] X Research source
Make sure you communicate well with this other person. Many electrical accidents occur because of miscommunication. You need to be able to trust that when this person says the power is off, it is actually off. [23] X Trustworthy Source US Occupational Safety and Health Administration U. S. government agency responsible for setting and enforcing workplace safety standards Go to source Even if you trust this other person with your life, it is probably a good idea to double check and make sure the power is off for yourself. Never assume anything when dealing with electricity. [24] X Trustworthy Source US Occupational Safety and Health Administration U. S. government agency responsible for setting and enforcing workplace safety standards Go to source
Stay low Avoid open areas Avoid metal and water
You should only try to move an electrical shock victim if the person is in immediate danger. [31] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
OSHA’s safety rules for working around electricity state that you have about 4 minutes to get help for an electric shock victim, so move quickly. [33] X Trustworthy Source US Occupational Safety and Health Administration U. S. government agency responsible for setting and enforcing workplace safety standards Go to source
