Don’t Take the Power of Electricity for Granted

Electricity and water are a dangerous, potentially fatal combination. Swimmers and boat owners need to take precautions to make sure their time in and on the water is safe. While this might seem like common sense, boats and docks are often powered by electricity. One mistake could lead to tragedy. Consider the following points:

There Is No Visible Warning to Electrified Water

An electric current in water causes a paralysis of muscles, which can result in drowning. As little as 10 milliamps — 1/50 of the amount used by a 60-watt light bulb — can cause paralysis.

If You Are In or on the Water & Feel a Tingling, the Water Might Be Electrified

Immediately get out of the water. Avoid using metal objects, such as a ladder. Alert others who are in the water to try to stay upright, tuck their legs in smaller and swim away from anything that could be energized.

If You Believe an Electric Shock Drowning Is Occurring, Turn Off All Power, Throw a Life Ring, & Call 911

Do not enter the water. It could still be electrified.

If You Own a Dock, Install Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters & Test Them Monthly

Use portable UL-Marine List GFCIs when using electricity near water.

If You Own a Boat That Uses Electricity, Install Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupters To Protect Swimmers From Electric Shock in the Water Around the Boat

The Energy Education Council recommends that all electrical installations be performed by a professional electrical contractor familiar with marine codes and standards. The organization also recommends that individuals avoid swimming around docks with electrical equipment or boats plugged into shore power. Many electrical shock drowning deaths have occurred around private docks and boats plugged into shore power while docked.