What to do in case of drowning or electric shock

In general, the main steps for handling drowning or electric shock incidents include cutting off the source of danger, quickly removing the victim from the hazardous environment, assessing vital signs, administering emergency first aid, and seeking timely medical treatment. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Cut Off the Source of Danger

If the victim is still in contact with an electrical source, immediately use an insulated object to move the wire or turn off the main power switch to prevent rescuers from being electrocuted. In a drowning situation, ensure your own safety first, and use lifesaving equipment to approach the victim to avoid both parties falling into danger, thus clearing the way for subsequent rescue efforts.

2. Quickly Remove the Victim from Danger

Move the electrocution victim to a well-ventilated, dry area away from water sources and conductive materials. After rescuing a drowning victim onto shore, promptly clear any foreign objects such as weeds or sand from their mouth and nose to maintain an open airway and prevent suffocation due to blockage.

3. Assess Vital Signs

Check the victim’s consciousness, breathing, and pulse. If there is no response to verbal stimuli, no chest movement, and no detectable pulse in the carotid artery, this indicates weak or absent vital signs, requiring immediate initiation of emergency life-saving procedures to maximize chances of survival.

4. Administer Emergency First Aid

When vital signs are abnormal, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including chest compressions and rescue breathing. For drowning victims with significant abdominal bloating, apply gentle pressure to the abdomen to expel water from the stomach. If there are external wounds, use clean gauze to apply pressure and control bleeding, preventing excessive blood loss.

5. Seek Timely Medical Treatment

Call 120 for emergency medical assistance while providing first aid. After hospitalization, follow medical advice regarding medication. Electric shock victims may be prescribed mecobalamin tablets to support nerve function, while drowning victims at risk of infection might receive amoxicillin capsules. In cases of allergic reactions, loratadine hydrochloride capsules can be administered.

Daily precautions should include raising safety awareness and avoiding unprotected bodies of water and exposed electrical wiring. When attempting a rescue, always prioritize personal safety and avoid reckless actions. During recovery, victims should rest adequately, maintain proper nutrition, attend follow-up appointments as instructed, and monitor their physical recovery progress.