After an electrical accident

The human body conducts electricity. If an electric shock is received, electricity will continue to flow through the human body until the electricity source is removed. If you witness an electrical accident, it is important to respond quickly, but with caution.

In the event of an accident involving powerlines, never go near or touch powerlines. Electricity from powerlines can jump or ‘arc’ through the air and travel to earth through your body, resulting in electrocution. Western Power strongly recommends the following steps:

phone 000 for emergency services;
do not go near an injured person if they are near powerlines and there is any possibility that they have been electrocuted;
call Western Power on 13 13 51 to disconnect the power;
if powerlines have fallen across a vehicle, tell the occupants to stay inside the vehicle until emergency services arrive;
stand back and urge others to keep a distance of at least six metres from downed powerlines; and
do not approach the scene until the proper authorities have declared the area safe.