How to protect yourself from drowning by electrocution, a silent threat in the water

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A local tragedy on Smith Mountain Lake is a stark reminder of the dangers of electrocution drowning. The Bedford County Sheriff’s Office says it found the body of a man who was reportedly electrocuted while on a private dock on Thursday, July 4.

According to the Association for the Prevention of Electrocution DrowningESD is drowning resulting from paralysis caused by electrical currents in water. If the currents are high enough, electrocution can occur.

ESD is a silent, odorless killer. Damaged equipment and cables around boats and docks can leak electricity into the water, creating an invisible hazard with no warning signs.

Fresh water poses a higher risk of drowning from electrocution than salt water. This is because our bodies are better conductors of electricity than fresh water. In other words, current flows through us more easily than it does in the surrounding water.

The Electrocution Drowning Prevention Association offers these safety tips before you venture out on the water this summer.

While you swim:

• The tingle test: If you feel a tingling sensation in the water, get out immediately. This may be a sign of dangerous electrical current.
• Maintain distance: Stay at least 50 meters away from docks, boats and other electrical equipment.
• Traffic signs: Place warning signs around your dock to alert others of potential hazards. You can print one online here.

For boat owners:

• Inspections: Schedule annual electrical inspections of your boat by a qualified electrician. Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrostatic discharge.
• Follow the rules: Codes and standards provide protection against accidental water ingress. Install ground fault protection on all electrical systems used by docks and boats.

In case of emergency:

• Call 911 immediately: If you witness an electrostatic discharge in a person’s home, the most important step is to call emergency services immediately.
• Don’t skip: Resist the urge to jump into the water to save someone from electrostatic discharge. The current could also injure you. Instead, try extending a long object, such as a pole, to pull the person away from the dock.
• Turn off the power source (if possible): If you can do so safely, locate the power source and turn it off to prevent further damage.