Electrocution
For execution in the electric chair, the person is usually shaved and strapped to the chair with belts. A metal skullcap-shaped electrode is attached to the scalp and forehead over a sponge moistened with saline. The sponge must not be too wet or the saline short-circuits the electric current, and not too dry, as it would then have a very high resistance. An additional electrode is conditioned with conductive jelly and attached to a portion of the prisoner's leg that has been shaved to reduce resistance to electricity. The prisoner is then blindfolded. After the execution team has moved to the observation room, the warden signals the executioner, who pulls a handle to commence electrocution. A jolt of between 500 and 2000 volts, which lasts for about 30 seconds, is given.
The doctors wait a few seconds for the body to cool down and then check to see if the inmate's heart is still beating. If it is, another jolt is applied. This process continues until the prisoner is dead. The prisoner's hands often grip the chair and there may be violent movement of the limbs which can result in dislocation or fractures. The tissues swell, defecation occurs, steam or smoke rises, and there is a smell of burning.
