Man Electrocuted, Fast Action by Co-Workers Saves His Life

A man in his 50s is alive today because his co-workers knew exactly how to respond during a life-threatening emergency. According to Ottawa paramedics, the man was electrocuted while working on underground fuel-pumping equipment on Cyrville Road, just north of Innes Road.

The electrical shock caused the man to go into sudden cardiac arrest. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, his co-workers immediately shut off the electrical current, brought him safely to the surface, and began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Firefighters arrived on scene shortly afterward, followed by paramedics just two minutes later. Emergency crews continued advanced life-saving measures, including defibrillation. Thanks to the fast and coordinated response, resuscitation was successful and the man’s spontaneous circulation was restored.

Bystander Action Makes the Difference

Ottawa paramedics emphasized that this outcome highlights the importance of immediate bystander intervention. In their statement, they recognized the critical role played by the patient’s co-workers and the teamwork between bystanders and emergency responders.

Survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest depends heavily on early CPR and rapid defibrillation using automated external defibrillators (AEDs). When these actions are delayed, survival rates drop significantly, making early response essential.

Why CPR and AED Training Matters

This incident is a powerful reminder that cardiac emergencies can happen anywhere, including workplaces with electrical or industrial risks. Having CPR and AED training allows ordinary people to act confidently and effectively when seconds matter most.

Learning these life-saving skills prepares individuals to respond before emergency crews arrive. Enrolling in professional CPR and AED training courses—such as those offered by Winnipeg First Aid—can help ensure you are ready to step in and Save a life during a cardiac emergency:

Discover the benefits of enrolling in near you.

Be Prepared to Save a Life

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a skill that can mean the difference between life and death. Proper training empowers bystanders to act quickly, safely, and effectively during emergencies, protecting co-workers, loved ones, and the public.

For full details about this incident, you can read the original report published by the Ottawa Citizen here:
👉 Man electrocuted, but fast action by co-workers saves him

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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