Woman Who Saved Gatineau Shock Victim Urges Safety Around Electricity After Flooding
A Gatineau woman who helped save a man after he suffered a severe electric shock is reminding residents to stay alert as they return to flood-affected homes. The incident was first reported by CBC News, and you can read the full original story here:
➡️ Woman who gave Gatineau shock victim CPR calls for safety around electricity
What began as volunteer flood support quickly turned into a life-or-death emergency — one that highlighted both the dangers of electricity around water and the importance of knowing CPR.
A Routine Sandbagging Effort Turns Tragic
On May 6, 2017, Richard Lafontaine was helping a neighbour build a sandbag barrier on De la Gappe Boulevard in the Touraines neighbourhood when he suddenly collapsed into electrified water. Melissa Hoszko, who was volunteering nearby with her boyfriend and father, saw him fall and rushed to help.
At first, no one understood what had happened.
“None of us have experience working with electricity,” Hoszko told CBC News. “Everyone thought he might’ve been exhausted, passed out — or he might have had a heart attack.”
Lafontaine had accidentally tripped over an electric-powered pump hidden beneath the floodwater. When Hoszko reached him, his face was completely blue and he had no pulse.
CPR Begins — and Saves a Life
Hoszko’s boyfriend and father quickly moved Lafontaine to a dry patch. In that critical moment, Hoszko decided to act. She and another bystander began CPR, refusing to stop until emergency responders arrived.
Their quick response kept Lafontaine alive long enough to receive medical care. Although he remains in recovery, close friend Sylvain Langlois says his condition is steadily improving.
“He has supernatural strength,” Langlois said. “He will be back as he was.”
Electricity + Water = A Deadly Combination
Floodwaters hide many hazards — and electrical dangers are among the most serious. Ontario’s Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) urges residents returning home to take extra precautions.
Before entering a flooded home, ensure that:
Water has not reached electrical outlets, panels, heaters, or furnaces
No wires, cables, or cords are frayed or damaged
No electrical equipment was submerged
“Electricity and water don’t mix — they’re a lethal combination,” warns ESA Chief Public Safety Officer Scott Saint.
If floodwater reached any electrical systems, contact your utility provider to ensure the power is safely turned off. A licensed electrical contractor should always assess and repair any damage.
The City of Gatineau also recommends using Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) when operating pumps or electrical devices near water to reduce shock risk.
A Reminder for Volunteers and Homeowners
Hoszko hopes her experience encourages others to prioritize safety during flood cleanup.
“It’s already a stressful situation,” she said. “You don’t want to make it even more stressful with people getting hurt or worse.”
Learn CPR — It Can Save a Life
This incident shows just how crucial CPR training can be. Acting quickly gave Lafontaine a fighting chance.
Serving Calgary and the surrounding areas the lowest priced, highest quality OH&S approved first aid training, CPR and food safety courses for over 15 years!
Support locally-owned and Canadian-operated businesses, with no partnerships or links with American corporations.