Power lines, wires, and metal are strong conductors of electricity. Our bodies are too. This means that when we are exposed to electricity, there are a number of unfortunate injuries, which can be sustained.
The most common injuries include cardiac arrest, nerve damage, fractures from falling, and electrocution burns. In fact, electric burns account for around 3,000 cases in burn centers with approximately 1,000 of those patients dying every year. Almost 20% of the cases are children who suffer electric injuries caused from extension cords, electric outlets, and other dangers in the home. Many adult cases occur from workplace injuries, as electric injuries are a leading cause of work-related deaths.
Electrocution burns are very different from burns caused by heat or fire . Electric burns often appear simply as skin discoloration and as a result are sometimes taken less seriously then they ought to be. With electric burns the majority of the damage is often below the skin and can worsen over time. The burns occur when electrical energy is converted into thermal energy. Thermal energy follows the path of least resistance, usually internal nerve and muscle tissue as it is softer than skin. This causes tissue injury and, in severe cases, death. Voltage and the length of time exposed determine the severity of the injury. Typically, the higher the voltage the more tissue damage.
Electrocution burns are classified as 1st degree, 2nd degree, and 3rd degree burns depending on depth of the burn. Those who suffer 2nd or 3rd degree burns often need to be cared for in specialized burn centers and can require lengthy rehabilitation. Severe cases can take months to recover from. Unfortunately, full recovery is sometimes impossible.
Electrocution injuries take an immense financial, physical, and emotional toll on victims and their families. It is important to teach your children about the dangerous outlets in your homes. Remind everyone of the very real damage that electricity presents and take action beforehand to prevent harm.
Sources:
https://www.walchlaw.com/electrocution-and-electric-shock-accident.html
https://www.hg.org/article.asp?id=18649
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