By WIBW TV
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Firefighters are warning swimmers and boaters of the dangers of electric shock drowning over the summer season.
The National Fire Protection Association says with the arrival of summer and the 4th of July holiday weekend, it wanted to remind residents of potential electrical hazards in swimming pools, hot tubs, onboard boats, on docks and piers and in waters around boats, marinas and launch ramps.
While most are unaware of the electrical danger in water environments like electric shock drowning, the NFPA said every year people are injured or killed from these hazards. It said ESD can happen when an improperly installed or maintained electrical system results in an electrical current in the water, which can pass through a person’s body and cause paralysis that can ultimately result in serious injury or drowning.