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Rescue and First Aid Print this pagePrint  

RESCUE AND FIRST AID

 
If an equipment operator comes into contact with a powerline,
follow these safety steps:
1.  Stay on the Equipment
It's generally safe to stay on equipment that has hit a powerline as long as you don't touch anything that is touching the ground at the same time. In fact, to touch anything that is touching the ground could be fatal. The driver should remain in the vehicle, unless there is a fire, and if possible move the equipment away from being in contact with the wires. If there is a fire, jump free without touching the equipment and the ground at the same time and shuffle away using small steps.

2.  Keep Others Away
Warn others not to approach or touch the equipment or vehicle. Even to touch a winch line or load on the equipment could be fatal.
3.  Call Hydro

If the problem is in the Power Stream service territory, contact PowerStream. Elsewhere call your local electricity utility to get help or the power shut off.

4.  Rescue

Rescue can only be attempted safely by a person trained to use special live line tools. In cases involving high voltage lines, even using a wooden tool, a dry rope, hose, wooden pole or board to move the victim from the wire is dangerous. If a life is at stake and rescue must be attempted, a heavy object like those mentioned above can sometimes be thrown in order to separate the victim from the wire. Never touch the victim or the equipment while still in contact with the powerline.

5.  First Aid

Once a victim is free from the powerline call 911 and begin first aid.

If unconscious, and either not breathing or breathing erratically, begin artificial respiration immediately - every second counts. Don't leave the victim alone - have someone else call 911.

If in shock, reassure and keep the victim warm, but do not apply heat. Loosen clothing about the neck, chest and waist. If thirsty give sips of water - not alcohol.

If burned, avoid handling the affected area. Do not apply lotions, break blisters or remove burned clothing. If possible, cover the burns, including clothing, with a prepared sterile dressing. Where the skin is blistering, bandage loosely, otherwise apply bandages firmly. Don't use gauze, cotton or wool or any other material that is likely to stick.