Bantwal: A major mishap was averted at Narikombu Government Higher Primary School after a Class 5 student acted quickly to prevent a midday meal worker from suffering further injury when her finger accidentally became caught in an electric grater.
The student, Manvith, was playing on the school premises when he heard the staff member scream. He immediately rushed to the spot and switched off the power supply to the appliance, preventing the possibility of further injury.
Student reacts immediately
The incident occurred while an Akshara Dasoha staff member was working at the school. During the activity, her finger accidentally got caught in an electric grater, causing her to scream for help.
On hearing the cry, Manvith immediately ran towards the spot. Without wasting time, he switched off the electricity supply, stopping the machine and helping prevent the situation from becoming more serious.
His quick response was particularly significant because an electric grater can cause serious injuries if it continues operating after a finger or hand becomes trapped.
School staff appreciate Manvith
The teaching staff appreciated Manvith for his presence of mind and timely action. The School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC) president Ravi Anchan and its members also praised the student.
They noted that Manvith’s ability to remain alert and respond quickly during an unexpected situation was commendable, particularly considering his young age.
The incident also highlights the importance of teaching children basic safety awareness. While students should not attempt to handle dangerous equipment, knowing when to seek help and, where it is safe to do so, cut off the power supply can help prevent accidents from becoming worse.
Officials praise student’s quick thinking
Akshara Dasoha assistant director Nonayya Naik and Cluster Resource Person (CRP) Jyothi visited the school and appreciated Manvith for his timely intervention.
Their visit further recognised the student’s contribution in preventing a potentially serious mishap. Manvith’s quick decision to switch off the power supply brought the immediate danger under control.
The incident has also drawn attention to the need for caution while using electrical equipment in school kitchens and other work areas.
Importance of electrical safety
Electrical appliances such as graters, mixers and other food-processing equipment can cause injuries when used improperly or when fingers come into contact with moving parts.
Staff handling such equipment need to follow safety precautions and ensure that appliances are operated carefully. Schools should also ensure that kitchen and electrical equipment are maintained properly and that workers are aware of emergency procedures.
Children, meanwhile, should be encouraged to immediately alert teachers or other adults during emergencies rather than attempting to physically intervene in dangerous situations.
In Manvith’s case, his response helped prevent the incident from escalating. His decision to switch off the power supply demonstrates how awareness and presence of mind can make a difference during an emergency.
A timely act prevents a bigger mishap
What could have turned into a more serious accident was brought under control because of the young student’s prompt response. Manvith’s actions have earned appreciation from teachers, SDMC members and education officials.
The incident serves as a reminder that basic safety awareness can play an important role in schools. Manvith’s quick thinking and timely action helped protect the midday meal worker from further harm and provided a positive example of responsible behaviour.