Electricity is essential to everyday life, but carries the potential to kill. One of the greatest risks comes from high-energy power lines, in particular when they’ve been broken and downed by falling limbs, storms, and so forth. But even the everyday household current is powerful enough to kill a person: sticking your finger in a light socket stands a good chance of being a fatal decision. A number of inventions help prevent these injuries, and one of the most common being the fuse.
Fuses have been around for nearly as long as we’ve used electricity. A fuse prevents damage to people (and electronics) by breaking when a current exceeding a particular threshold passes through it. Sometimes this “break” can be fixed by flipping a switch, as with household circuit breakers. By functioning as a known breakpoint, fuses allow engineers to design safer and longer-lasting devices.
Although we might take them for granted, the ability of fuses to save lives becomes obvious when they are not used. There have been cases of electrocution due to someone replacing a fuse with a piece of metal. Such acts of incredible recklessness can easily turn fatal if an unexpected power surge is not stopped by a fuse. Although rare, such instances underline the importance of proper fuse replacement and electrical maintenance.
If someone comes in contact with powerful electrical current, it is important to turn the power off as quickly as possible. Only by stopping the current can you prevent further damage. If this is not possible, notify the authorities immediately. It is also important to refrain from touching the person until the electrical danger is completely past. By immediately calling in paramedics, you can dramatically reduce the risk of death.
Electricity can cause cardiac arrest, severe burns, and potentially extensive damage to the brain and other organs. The presence of an emergency defibrillator and someone trained in its use can restart an electrocuted person’s heart and prevent death. Even if a defibrillator is available, however, it is important to immediately call 911.
Electrocution is a tragic and traumatic way to die or sustain serious injury. If you or a loved one have been affected by electric shock and believe someone is liable, a personal injury lawyer can help you bring your life back into order and take legal action against those responsible. The experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams can help you. Call them today to speak directly to a lawyer.
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