An electric shock is something most people don’t expect, and when it happens, it can be frightening.
Whether you’ve felt a quick jolt or witnessed someone else get shocked, it’s important to know how to respond calmly and quickly. Understanding what an electric shock is and what to do if you get an electric shock could prevent further injury or even save a life.
If the shock occurs in a workplace, contacting a licensed commercial electrician in Melbourne is essential to assess the cause and ensure the environment is safe for everyone.
What is an Electric Shock?
So, what is an electric shock exactly? It happens when electrical current travels through the body, often unexpectedly. This can happen through contact with faulty wiring, damaged appliances, exposed cords, or even something as simple as touching a power point with wet hands.
The severity depends on the strength of the current, where it enters the body, and how long the exposure lasts. Even a mild shock can be serious if it impacts the heart, muscles, or nervous system. That’s why seeking medical advice is always the smart move.
What to Do After an Electric Shock on the Hand
Wondering what to do after an electric shock on your hand? If you or someone else receives a shock to the hand, the first thing to do is ensure the area is safe. Turn off the power at the source if possible. If it’s unsafe to approach, use a non-conductive object like a wooden broom handle to gently move the person away from the source. Never touch them with your bare hands if the current is still active.
Once the person is safe, check if they are conscious and breathing. If not, call 000 immediately and begin CPR, but only if you’re trained. Even if they are alert but feel unwell, confused, or have visible burns or tingling sensations, they should still see a doctor. These symptoms can sometimes worsen or lead to internal complications.
If there’s a visible burn on the hand, run the area under cool (not cold) water for about 20 minutes and remove any rings or jewellery before swelling starts. Avoid applying creams or ice. Cover the burn with a clean, dry dressing or cloth and wait for medical help. Knowing what to do after an electric shock on the hand can reduce complications and improve recovery.
What to Do if Someone Gets an Electric Shock
The steps are similar whether the shock happens at home, work or somewhere else. Switch off the power source if it’s safe to do so. Don’t touch the person if the current is still active. Once it’s safe, check for signs of breathing, burns, confusion or heart palpitations.
Call for medical help right away, even if symptoms feel mild. Shocks can cause damage to the heart or nervous system that may not show up immediately. If you’re alone and feel okay, still make a doctor’s appointment as soon as you can.
When to Call a Professional
After a shock, it’s important to figure out what caused it and stop it from happening again. That’s where a licensed professional comes in. If the shock involved a faulty appliance, damaged wiring or an overloaded circuit, it’s time to call a qualified electrician.
Our team at J3t Electrical can help you identify risks, carry out repairs and make sure your space is safe. If you’re managing a commercial property or workplace, we recommend routine inspections as part of your electrical maintenance plan. For homes and businesses, we also offer certified testing and tagging in Melbourne.
Not sure who to call? Our team of Melbourne emergency electricians is available 24/7 to help when things go wrong. We also support commercial and industrial clients across the city. Whether you’re looking for a reliable electrical contractor in Melbourne or need advice after a shock, we’re here for you.
You can also learn more about what to do during a power outage and how to protect your property in the future.
Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
Even if you haven’t experienced an electric shock, signs like flickering lights, tripping circuits, buzzing outlets, or a burning smell around appliances could point to serious electrical issues. These are often early warnings of faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. Addressing them early with a professional can prevent future shocks or fire hazards.
J3t Electrical offers thorough inspections and electrical maintenance services to keep your home or workplace safe. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Get it checked before it becomes an emergency.