First aid training: integrating psychological support for responders
10/06/2024
How to react in a road accident: first aid basics in French-speaking Switzerland
10/06/2024When faced with an electrical accident, the initial reaction of any witness can be decisive. Knowing how to intervene effectively and safely is crucial to helping the victim while protecting yourself. This article aims to equip first responders with practical knowledge and clear steps to follow when faced with such an emergency. Discover the essential steps to take to effectively manage an electrical accident.
Prevent before intervening: Safety first
In the event of an electrical accident, the absolute priority is to avoid any overaccident. Ensure your own safety first before approaching the victim. Immediately cut off the power supply via the circuit breaker or main switch. If this is not possible, use an insulating object (dry wood or plastic) to move the source away from the victim. Never touch the victim directly if the current is still active, as this could electrocute you.
Assess the situation and alert emergency services
Once the area has been secured, check that the victim is conscious and breathing normally. If there is no response or breathing, immediately call emergency services on 144. Clearly state the nature of the accident, the location and the condition of the victim. Meanwhile, if anyone is present, ask them to notify emergency services while you begin first aid, such as cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.
Applying first aid procedures
1. If the victim is unconscious but breathing
- Check your breathing by tilting your head back slightly and observing your chest movements.
- Place the victim in the lateral position of safety (PLS): gently bend one leg, turn the victim on their side, with their mouth facing the ground to avoid the risk of inhalation of vomiting.
- Monitor breathing every 2 to 3 minutes until help arrives.
2. If the victim is not breathing
- Immediately begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Place your hands in the centre of the chest, arms outstretched, and perform deep chest compressions (5 to 6 cm) at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
- If you are trained, alternate with 2 insufflations after 30 compressions.
- If an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, use it without delay by following the voice instructions.
Continue these actions until help arrives or the victim shows signs of recovery.
Preparing for the arrival of emergency services
Be prepared to give the emergency services all the information they need about the accident. Clearly indicate where the accident took place, the measures you have taken and the victim’s current condition. Make sure that access to the accident site is clear so that emergency services can intervene quickly and effectively.
Awareness and prevention
Prevention is an essential aspect of electrical safety. Familiarise yourself with electrical safety equipment, safe working practices and attend regular training courses on electrical safety. Encourage those around you to be aware of the dangers of electricity and to adopt preventive behaviour.
This article is part of the IAS 2 course training programme and is not included in the IAS 1 training course syllabus and BLS AED SRC.
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