Answers to Questions about Electricity and Safety

The following answers are brief and intended as guidelines only. Student answers may vary with the sources they use.

1.  You have learned the differences between current, voltage, and resistance. In cases of electric shock, which of these three is most responsible for the level of injury? How is it measured?

ANS: Current; measured in amperes, or amps.

2.   Why do human beings make good conductors of electricity?

ANS: Because their bodies are 70% water. (Note: Distilled or pure water is a nonconductor.)

3.   Suppose you observe someone receive a severe electric shock. List at least three things that should be done immediately.

ANS: (Any 3) Turn off the source of power; if the power can’t be turned off, push the person away from the source using wood or another nonconductor; call for emergency help, such as 911; give the victim CPR if he/she requires it.

4.   What does a ground fault circuit interrupter do?

ANS: It monitors the current flowing to electrical equipment; if the flow suddenly varies dramatically, it breaks the circuit.

5.   How many home fires are caused each year in the U.S. by misuse of electric cords and plugs?

ANS: About 7,000.

6.   Suppose you discover an electrical fire in your home List at least three things you should do.

ANS: (Any 3) If you cannot immediately extinguish it, have everyone leave the house and call the fire department. If the fire is from a small appliance, do not touch it; unplug the appliance or turn off the electricity at the circuit breaker. Use a class C fire extinguisher, which is recommended for electrical fires.

7.   How does a circuit breaker work to protect against fires?

ANS: In case of a surge, the device breaks the flow of current running through the circuit.