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Proper Way to Rescue a Person With an Insulated Rescue Hook

Electrocution can be fatal for both primary victims and potential rescuers, as touching a person who is being electrocuted can result in the current passing through his body and into yours. Insulated rescue hooks allow you to separate an electrocution victim from the source of the electricity that is shocking hin while keeping you a safe distance away from the current. Using an insulated rescue hook properly will greatly increase the victim's chance of survival without putting you at risk.

  1. Shut Down the System

    • Turn off the source of power that is providing the current to the victim if possible. If the current stops, the victim can be safely moved if needed and will not be in danger of further internal and external damage from electrocution. Depending on the source of the electric current, however, it may not be possible to shut down the power quickly or completely.

    Safety Gear

    • Wear nonconductive gloves and shoes with rubber soles if possible while attempting to rescue an electrocution victim. Though the insulated rescue hook that you will be using is designed to prevent the current from reaching you during the rescue, the addition of nonconductive gloves and shoes will help to keep you safe in the unlikely event that you are exposed to an electrical current. This is especially important if there are potential other sources of current such as metal flooring or exposed live wires.

    Use the Rescue Hook

    • Hook the individual that you are trying to rescue around the torso or a large appendage such as an arm or a leg when using the rescue hook (to avoid injury, do not place the hook around the neck.) Pull firmly, making sure to hold the hook only by its fiberglass handle during the rescue attempt. Your goal is to remove the victim from the current by rolling or dragging her away from the power source; use several pulls if necessary to make sure that she has been completely separated from the danger.

    First Aid and Emergency Services

    • Check the victim to see if he is breathing and if he has a pulse. Begin administering CPR or rescue breathing if needed while you wait for an ambulance or other emergency personnel to arrive. Keep the victim covered with blankets or other materials to keep her warm and to help prevent the onset of shock. If she is unconscious, keep her on her side to prevent choking on saliva or other bodily fluids.

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