While repairing wires lineman zapped unconscious

CEBU, Philippines - A lineman of the Cebu Electric Cooperative III suffered burns in the different parts of his body after he was electrocuted while fixing wires at an electric post in Barangay Poblacion, Toledo City at past 6 am yesterday.

Virgilio Cristota, of legal age, married and a resident of Sitio Kabulihan in Barangay Ilihan, was rushed to the hospital after he was rescued by his fellow linemen from the electric post.

Police said that prior to the incident, residents near Barbra sports complex experienced brownout, prompting the CEBECO III linemen to repair the connection of the post.

According to witnesses, Cristota accidentally touched the live wires and an explosion followed.

The electrician was later seen hanging from the wires of the post, already unconscious. The victim was using his safety belt, which prevented him from falling to the ground.

Police said it took about 10 minutes for Cristota’s companions to retrieve his body using a crane, which was opted to use for easy retrieval.

Cebeco II general manager Virgilio Fortich said he will have the incident investigated to find out who switched on the power while Cristota was still doing repair works.

It was reported that the victim did not wear gloves while doing the job, reportedly relying on the fact that the power had been switched off already. (FREEMAN)