What to do in an electrical emergency

In an emergency

Don't touch anyone who is receiving an electric shock.

1. Turn the power off. If you can't, try to separate the victim from the power source using a non-conductive item (e.g. a wooden broomstick). Don't use metal items.
2. Call the Queensland Ambulance Service on 000.
   • 000 is Australia's primary emergency number and should be used for emergency assistance from fixed, mobile and pay phones in the first instance.
   • 112 is the emergency service number for mobile phones.
3. Administer first aid. If the victim is not breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Fallen overhead powerlines

1. Call 000 immediately. Don't touch anyone who is receiving a shock from the fallen powerlines.
2. Notify the police and the relevant electricity entity (possibly Energex or Ergon Energy).
3. Keep others away from the fallen powerlines.

Do not attempt a rescue until you are sure the powerlines have been de-energised by the electricity entity.

First Aid

Read information about workplace first aid and emergency plans.