What factor would NOT increase the severity of an electric shock?

Dry skin is the correct answer because it actually acts as an insulator and reduces the conductivity of the skin, which in turn decreases the severity of an electric shock. When skin is dry, it offers more resistance to the flow of electric current. This means that if someone were to come into contact with an electrical source, the risk of a severe electric shock is lower when their skin is dry compared to when it is wet.

Conversely, wet skin significantly decreases resistance, allowing a greater amount of electrical current to pass through the body, which can increase the severity of an electric shock. High voltage similarly raises the risk, as it drives more current through the body. Long exposure time adds to the danger by allowing more current to flow for a longer duration, increasing the likelihood of serious injury. These factors illustrate how electrical safety must consider the conditions under which contact occurs, particularly the state of the skin in relation to moisture.