If you received an electric shock from an appliance, tap, or any surface in your home, there is an active electrical fault that could be lethal. Stop using the appliance or fixture immediately and turn off the circuit at the switchboard. Even a mild tingle indicates current is leaking where it shouldn't be. This is a medical and electrical emergency — seek medical attention if needed, then call an electrician before using the circuit again.
What to do right now
- 1
Stop using the item immediately
Do not touch the appliance, tap, or surface again. If someone is still in contact with the electrical source and can't let go, turn off the main power at the switchboard before touching them.
- 2
Seek medical attention if needed
If you or someone received more than a mild tingle — muscle contractions, burns, chest pain, or confusion — call 000 for an ambulance. Electric shock can cause internal injuries that aren't immediately apparent, including heart rhythm problems.
- 3
Turn off the circuit
Go to the switchboard and turn off the circuit breaker for the area where the shock occurred. If you're unsure which circuit, turn off the main switch. Do not restore power until an electrician has inspected.
- 4
Call an emergency electrician
An electric shock means current is leaking to earth through surfaces, plumbing, or appliance casings. This is often caused by failed insulation, faulty earthing, or a missing earth connection. A licensed electrician must find and fix the fault.
When to call an emergency electrician
- ⚠️You receive any electric shock or tingling sensation from an appliance
- ⚠️You get a shock from taps, shower fixtures, or metal surfaces
- ⚠️A child reports tingling or 'funny feelings' when touching something
- ⚠️The shock happened in a wet area (bathroom, kitchen, laundry, outdoors)
- ⚠️Your safety switch (RCD) has not been tripping despite the shock — meaning it may be faulty
How much does it cost?
Emergency fault-finding for electric shock incidents costs $200–$500. The repair depends on the cause — a faulty appliance is free to fix (just remove it), while earthing faults or wiring issues cost $300–$800 to repair. Testing the RCD/safety switch is included in most callouts.