BANGKOK, Thailand – A 15-year-old boy was knocked unconscious by an electrical leak in a flooded area behind his home in Don Mueang on September 26, prompting a difficult rescue through knee-deep water. The boy was found unconscious after coming into contact with leaking electricity in the flooded area behind his home. Relatives immediately began performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), continuing for around 10 minutes before a passer-by arrived to help.
The passer-by used an automated external defibrillator (AED), which analysed the boy’s condition and delivered seven shocks during the rescue effort. Because floodwater had reached leg level around the incident site, an advanced ambulance could not reach the area. Don Mueang emergency personnel therefore waded through the floodwater to reach the boy. Rescuers continued CPR while carrying him through the flooded area and along approximately six kilometres of the rescue route before safely transferring him to Sikan Hospital.
The boy later regained a pulse and consciousness. Doctors were continuing to monitor and treat him closely. The incident highlights the potentially life-threatening danger of electrical leaks during flooding. Residents should take particular care around electrical outlets, cables, appliances and other areas where electricity may come into contact with floodwater.
Anyone who suspects an electrical leak should not walk through the water to investigate or touch an electrical-shock victim directly. Electricity should be switched off only when it can be done safely, and emergency personnel should be contacted immediately.
