First Aid for Electrical Burns

An electrical burn can occur whenever a person comes into contact with an electrical current. Common causes include poorly insulated or chewed (by infants or animals) wires, faulty electrical equipment, workplace accidents involving machinery, and electric fencing. This kind of injury can be very dangerous, so it is important to respond to one as quickly as possible.

If you or a loved one has suffered from an electrical burn caused by another party’s negligence, you may be interested in pursuing legal action. If so, a Charleston personal injury lawyer from the Steinberg Law Firm can help you understand your options and obligations under South Carolina law. Call our offices today at 843-720-2800.

Responding to Electrical Burns

The dangerous aspect of electrical burns is that they can do extensive internal damage while appearing mild externally. It is best not to take chances with this kind of injury; if someone has been hurt by contact with an electrical current, consult a medical professional right away. If the victim experiences disorientation, heart palpitations, or breathing problems, call 911.

In addition to calling for help, you can assist an electrical burn victim by observing the following tips:

• If possible, turn off the electrical current at its source. If not, do not touch the victim as long as he or she is still in contact with the current. Instead, use a non-conducting material like a wooden broom to move him or her away from the current.
• Check the victim’s pulse and breathing. If there are problems with either one, administer CPR while you wait for professional help to arrive.
• If the person exhibits symptoms like cold and sweaty skin, dizziness, shallow breathing, or confusion, he or she may be going into shock. Help the person lie down and keep his legs elevated by about one foot until help arrives. Check his or her breathing regularly.

As in all emergencies, the most important thing is to avoid panic. Simply focus on keeping the victim comfortable and safe while you wait for emergency personnel.

Contact a Charleston Electrical Burn Lawyer

Electrical burns can be painful and costly injuries. If you are interested in pursuing compensation for losses like medical expenses and missed work, our Charleston electrical burn attorneys can help. To learn more, contact the Steinberg Law Firm at 843-720-2800.