Electric Shock Drowning – Water and Electricity Don’t Mix

Electric Shock Drowning (ESD) severely injures and kills people every year. ESD occurs when faulty wiring sends electric current into water, which passes through the body and causes paralysis, which could ultimately result in drowning.

How to Avoid Electric Shock Drowning

• Locate and label all power switches to pool, hot tub, spa equipment, and lighting
• Make sure all pools, hot tubs, and spas are at least 25 feet from powerlines
• All wiring and repairs should be performed by a qualified electrician
• Have a qualified electrician inspect your pool, spa, or hot tub annually
• Install GFCIs , which can prevent electrocution, on all receptacles within 20 feet of water’s edge

What to do if you see Electric Shock Drowning

1. Do not enter the water
2. Turn off source of power
3. Call 911
4. Use an insulated device (such as fiberglass rescue crook) to attempt to remove victim from water