For electrical injury, disconnect power before touching the person
Disconnect power, or for the ordinary low-voltage situation described in the source use a dry nonconductive object to separate the source, before touching the person. Pulling them directly can create a second casualty. Once safely disconnected, absent breathing calls for CPR. Do not approach fallen high-voltage lines or electrical substations; keep away until utility staff isolate power.
What it takes
Free.
What you may gain
Isolating electricity protects the rescuer from becoming another casualty. After disconnection, absent breathing requires CPR as in entry 1. CDC instructions say to look without touching because the person may remain energized; disconnect if possible, otherwise move the source with nonconductive cardboard, plastic or wood. Once safe, begin CPR if breathing or pulse has stopped. A narrative review reports often favorable outcomes among successfully resuscitated electrical-arrest patients.
Context & considerations
Disconnecting first protects you directly. Do not attempt rescue around downed high-voltage lines or substations; retreat and wait for the utility. After electrical isolation, standard CPR and defibrillation apply; the fact that the injury was electrical is not a reason to avoid them.
Research & references
US CDC. What to Do to Protect Yourself From Electrical Hazards, first-aid section. https://www.cdc.gov/natural-disasters/response/what-to-do-protect-yourself-from-electrical-hazards.html; Spies C, Trohman RG (2006). Narrative review: Electrocution and life-threatening electrical injuries. Annals of Internal Medicine 145(7):531-537. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-145-7-200610030-00011