CHARLOTTE – Electrocution in and around the home and businesses happen every day. In comparison to other countries, we in the United States suffer fewer deaths from electricity. The electrical safety infrastructure in the USA has been developed over time and identified many problem areas which have been addressed by CODE changes. Each county in North Carolina has adopted Code updates and an inspection process. Code requirements can seem needless and costly but the value to safety has been proven time and again.

New technology has introduced safety devices such as GFI outlets which instantly shut down an electrical circuit when a hazard that could cause electrical shock has been detected. Tamper resistant outlets protect children against electrical shocks by rejecting nonconforming objects. New requirements for equipment and wiring and code enforcement have greatly improved our safety and comfort.

What should you do if you see someone being electrocuted? Because our bodies are conductors of electricity DO NOT try to pull them away from the electricity. There are many incidents of death where two people were electrocuted because someone tried to help. Instead, first try to shut off the power source. If you can’t access an electrical panel then you can use a nonconductive item such as a wooden broom if you are indoors or a hose if you are outside to knock the person away from the source.

If you have any questions about electrical shock hazards or any electrical concerns give us a call at GB Electrical Services, (980) 500-2378.