What To Do When Lightning Strikes!
Avoid Being Outside During Storms
The cardinal rule with respect to lightning safety is to be indoors, in a safe building, when thunderstorms approach your area. While the average annual number of deaths from lightning strikes are well below a hundred, thousands get seriously injured from simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The vast majority of lighting strike victims are in open fields or parks when a thunderstorm approaches. This is followed by those who are hiding under trees or people who are in boats or fishing. Consequently, it is imperative that anyone who is exposed to the threat of lightning seeks adequate shelter immediately. But what is adequate shelter?
Best Structures in Lightning Storms
A common misconception is that picnic shelters, outhouses and basic structures in open spaces will provide protection against the effects of a lightning strike. The reality is that while these structures may protect against a direct hit, people can still be impacted by a nearby strike.
The best place to be is in a structure that is enclosed, has a real roof, walls and according to the government, indoor plumbing. This distinction is meant to reinforce the idea that we should take cover in a real building. However, believe it or not, indoor plumbing can also create a ground for the lightning and prevent people inside from being harmed as well.
Being inside of a vehicle is also a safe alternative if you can’t get to an adequate shelter in time.
Keep in mind that you can still be injured from a direct hit or nearby strike even if you are in an adequate shelter. Stay off the phone, turn off electronic devices and avoid touching metal objects such as shower heads and faucets. A good rule of thumb is that you should exercise caution until 30 minutes after a storm has passed.
However, use your own judgment because many storms move quickly and can be well out of your area by that time. The goal is to put at least five miles between you and the storm in order to minimize the chances of being hit by a stray lightning bolt.
What to do if You’re Stuck Outside
Use your best judgment as far as where to seek shelter if you are in the path of a storm and can’t get to safety. Run to your car. Hide under some outcroppings, ditches or in other terrain that is lower than the surrounding area. If you’re in a boat and can’t get back to shore, lay as close to the bottom as possible and drop anchor. Dropping the anchor will provide a ground which can shield you from the brunt of the electricity if struck.
While chances are that you won’t be struck by lightning, remember that it only takes one time to alter your life forever. The best way to avoid becoming exposed to a dangerous situation by keeping tabs on weather forecasts. However, following these guidelines can help to maximize your safety if you get caught unawares. Remember that the last place you want to be is beneath a tree or metallic structure. If worse comes to worse, get to the lowest point in the area and lay down until the storm passes.
