A tragic incident occurred in Tondo, Manila, as a man was fatally electrocuted amid heavy flooding.
The electrocution incident has brought to light the dangers posed by electrical hazards during floods. It also reminded authorities of the need for public safety awareness.
Incident Details
On July 24, 2024, heavy rains caused severe flooding in Tondo, Manila. Amidst these conditions, David Lipon Gerona, a 32-year-old resident, was tragically electrocuted. According to reports, Castillo was found in front of the Immaculada school along Tayuman Street. The incident took place around 3:30 PM. His brother, Juni, brought him to Gat Andres Bonifacio Memorial Medical Center, and he was declared dead on arrival. The incident was posted by Facebook user Angelo Cayabyab Buequel, who pleaded to the public to avoid the area.
Immediate Response
During a Metro Manila Council meeting led by Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, the Mandaluyong City government reported incidents of residents suffering electric shocks. The shocks were caused by power cables breaking and falling into floodwaters. Abalos urged the Manila Electric Co. to turn off electricity in flooded areas to prevent casualties.
Action Steps
First steps
Electrocution is a critical medical emergency requiring swift and careful action. The first priority is safety. Firstly, if the person is still in contact with the electrical source, do not touch them directly to avoid electrocution yourself. Instead, if feasible, turn off the power supply. If this isn’t possible, use a non-conductive object, such as a wooden stick or plastic item, to separate the person from the electrical source. Immediately call emergency services by dialling the appropriate emergency number to summon professional medical help.
Check for breathing
Next, assess the person’s responsiveness and breathing. If the individual is unresponsive, check for signs of breathing and a pulse, taking no more than 10 seconds to do so. If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, begin CPR without delay. Perform chest compressions at a rate of 100 -120 per minute, interspersed with two rescue breaths. Continue CPR until the arrival of emergency responders or until the person starts breathing.
Cover burns
If there are burns, typically at the points where the current entered and exited the body, cool these areas with clean, cool water. Do not apply ice directly to the burns. Cover the burns with sterile, non-stick dressings if available. It’s crucial to monitor the person for signs of shock, which may include pale, clammy skin, weakness, a rapid pulse, and shallow breathing. Keep the victim lying down, elevate their legs if there are no visible injuries, and cover them with a blanket to maintain warmth.
Do not move the person
Avoid moving the person, as they may have sustained internal injuries or fractures; only move them if there is immediate danger, such as a fire. If the person is conscious, provide reassurance and keep them calm and as comfortable as possible while waiting for help. Regardless of how the victim seems after, they should receive a thorough medical evaluation, as electrical injuries can cause internal damage that isn’t apparent.
Public Safety Concerns
The incident highlights the critical dangers associated with electrical infrastructure during flooding events. Floodwaters can conceal live wires, creating a high risk of electrocution for anyone wading through the water. This tragedy has underscored the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, particularly in areas prone to flooding and electrical issues.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution when navigating flooded streets. They recommend avoiding contact with water in these situations, as it may be electrically charged due to submerged live wires. Additionally, residents are advised to report any exposed wires or electrical concerns to the proper authorities immediately.
Calls for Action
In light of this fatal incident, local officials and safety advocates are calling for increased vigilance and preventive measures. Routine checks and maintenance of electrical installations are urgently needed, especially in flood-prone areas. Public awareness campaigns about the dangers of live wires during floods are also being advocated to educate residents on protecting themselves during such emergencies.
The tragic death of David Lipon Gerona serves as a sobering reminder of the hidden dangers lurking in floodwaters. As the community mourns his loss, there is a renewed focus on improving public safety protocols and ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future. The local government, along with utility companies, is working to address these issues and enhance the safety of electrical systems in vulnerable areas.
Conclusion
The electrocution of a man during flooding in Tondo is a tragic event that underscores the dangers posed by live electrical wires in flood conditions. It highlights the urgent need for public safety awareness and proactive measures to prevent similar accidents. As the rainy season continues, residents are urged to take necessary precautions and follow safety advisories to avoid further tragedies.
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