NERC Warns Public Against Touching Electric Shock Victims
By Favour Momodu
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a public safety advisory cautioning Nigerians against touching victims of electrical shock or approaching fallen live wires, warning that such actions could result in additional injuries or fatalities.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, the commission stressed that electricity remains highly dangerous and unpredictable, urging residents to prioritise personal safety during electrical emergencies.
“Safety first: Don’t Become the Next Victim! Electricity is powerful, but it doesn’t play favorites,” the statement read. “If you see a live wire down or witness someone getting shocked, your first instinct might be to jump in. Stop right there! Touching a victim with your bare hands or trying to pull them away can send the current straight through you, too.”
The regulatory body explained that when a person is in direct contact with a live electrical source, their body may still be conducting current.
Attempting to rescue them without first ensuring the power supply has been switched off or without using proper protective equipment could cause the rescuer to also become electrocuted.
NERC advised members of the public never to touch a live wire or a person who is still in contact with electricity. It urged residents to maintain a safe distance from the scene and ensure bystanders do the same to prevent multiple casualties.
The commission also directed that the nearest electricity distribution company (DisCo) or emergency response services be contacted immediately for professional intervention.
The commission emphasised that only trained and properly equipped personnel should handle electrical incidents, noting that well-meaning but uninformed rescue attempts often escalate emergencies.
NERC further urged residents to remain vigilant, especially during periods when fallen power lines and exposed electrical installations are more common.
It encouraged communities to promptly report damaged poles, exposed cables, and other electrical hazards to the appropriate authorities.
According to the commission, the advisory forms part of its broader public awareness campaign aimed at reducing accidents linked to electricity and promoting safer practices across the country’s power sector.
Residents were encouraged to share the safety message within their communities to help protect lives and prevent avoidable tragedies.
