How to Prevent Electrical Shock

Electrical accidents are known to occur all the time. But there are ways that can help prevent an accident by being fully aware of managing electricity around you. Add to this a thorough knowledge of how electricity works and you can easily prevent shocks. Whether at home or the workplace, preventing electrical shock is quite possible if you just follow a few ground rules. Electrical shock occurs if a part of your body is instrumental in completing a circuit between two conductors or a grounding source.
Once you suffer a shock, the after-effect will vary as per the current flow and the path of the current through your body. If the voltage is high, then the injuries will certainly be grave. So the best thing is to know how to avoid getting electrical shocks. For one, avoid creating a circuit through yourself between a live and neutral or earth cable. Do not, under any circumstance, touch any electrical appliance with wet hands. And do not operate light switches with wet hands. If you happen to be working with electrical circuits, then you must make sure that the power is off and the fuses withdrawn. Always ascertain before hand that appliances, sockets, switches and flexes are in good condition before using them.
A little education regarding electricity can go a long way. You must be aware that voltage is the force that causes the flow of the current. Current is the amount of electricity that is flowing through the wires. And resistance slows down or stops the flow of current. The greater the resistance, the lower the amount of flow. A ground is a connection between the electrical current and the earth, and electricity always seeks a ground to earth. Remember these important tips when you happen to be working with electricity:
. Whenever you begin working on any electrical equipment, check, then double check, to be sure there is no source of electricity flowing.
. Always have a fire extinguisher within easy reach to use in case of emergency.
. Do not, under any circumstances, assume that someone else would have cut off the power source. You must check things for yourself.
. Contact a professional electrician to do extensive electrical work.
To be completely safe, you must follow these rules as they will help you prevent electrical shocks. Also, remember the little things like never to overload electrical circuits. Always check electrical cords for any signs of fraying or wear and tear. Keep all electronic equipment away from dampness and water. In case of an electrical fire, shut the power off and use a fire extinguisher on the fire. Never ever use water to put out an electrical fire.