Lightning Safety tips
Published on July 04, 2023
Each year in the United States, about 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning flashes, and about 300 people are struck by lightning. Of those struck, about 30 people are killed, and others suffer lifelong disabilities. Most of these tragedies can be prevented. Thunderstorms and lightning are common occurrences in the Tampa Bay area. When thunderstorms threaten, get inside a building with plumbing and electricity or a hard-topped metal vehicle. Following these suggested measures may lower your exposure to injury from a lightning storm.
When Outdoors
Awareness: Know the forecast for the area you plan to visit. Pay attention to changes in weather conditions. If thunderstorms are forecast, postpone or reschedule your plans. Darkening skies in the distance or the sound of far-off thunder should indicate that it is time to seek adequate shelter. “When thunder roars, go indoors!”.
Seek Shelter Immediately:
Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with windows rolled up.
If Caught in the Open:
Crouching or getting low to the ground can reduce your chances of being struck, but it does not remove you from danger. If you are caught outside with no safe shelter nearby, the following actions might reduce your risk of being struck by lightning:
- Never lie flat on the ground. Crouch down in a ball-like position with your head tucked and hands over your ears so that you are down low with minimal contact with the ground.
- Never shelter under an isolated tree.
- Immediately get out of and away from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.
- Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (such as wire fences and power lines)
Separate From Others:
If you are in a group during a thunderstorm, separate from each other. This will reduce the number of injuries if lightning strikes the ground.
If out in Open Water:
If you are on a boat in open water when a thunderstorm rolls in, return to shore immediately and seek shelter. If you are unable to return to shore, boats with cabins offer some protection. If caught in a storm in a small boat with no cabin, drop anchor and get as low as possible.
Avoid Open Vehicles, Open Structures, and Open Spaces:
Avoid open vehicles such as convertibles, motorcycles, and golf carts. Avoid open structures such as porches, gazebos, baseball dugouts, and sports arenas. These structures won’t protect you from lightning. Stay away from open spaces such as golf courses, parks, playgrounds, ponds, lakes, swimming pools, and beaches. Seek shelter immediately.
Avoid Tall Structures:
Stay away from tall structures like telephone poles and trees; lightning tends to strike the tallest object around.
When Indoors
Avoid Water:
Do NOT bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing.
DO NOT TOUCH any Electrical Equipment:
Avoid Windows, Doors, Porches, and Concrete:
Don’t Use Corded Telephones:
Pet Safety
DO NOT LEAVE PETS OUTSIDE:
Do NOT leave your pet outdoors or chained to a tree during a lightning storm. Doghouses are NOT safe shelters; bring your pet inside.
Remove Metal Collars, Leashes, or Harnesses:
Even though metal does not attract electricity, it is a good conductor and can make injuries, such as burns, worse if struck.
What to do if Someone is Struck by Lightning:
- Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and may need first aid immediately
- Call for help. Call 9-1-1.
- Don’t be a victim. If possible, move the victim to a safer place. Lightning CAN strike twice.
- Give first aid. Begin CPR if you are trained
- Use an Automatic External Defibrillator if one is available. These units are lifesavers!
Protect Your Home:
The National Weather Service and your Homeowners Insurance Provider have valuable information about systems designed to protect your home from fire and other damage secondary to a lightning strike.
References