Protect Yourself From Lightning

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most common causes of weather-related deaths is lightning. Though the chances of being hit by lightning are only around 1 in 500,000 a year, certain factors can increase the chances of being struck. Here are several lightning safety recommendations.

Check The Weather

Be conscious of your surroundings. Before engaging in any outdoor activities, make sure to check the weather forecast. If thunderstorms are anticipated, postpone your trip or activity or make sure you have enough safe shelter.

Stay Indoors

Go inside. “When thunder roars, go indoors,” as the saying goes. When thunder is heard, seek cover in a dry, enclosed area. Homes, offices, shopping malls, and hard-top cars with the windows rolled up to serve as safe-havens.

Stay Away from Windows

Windows, doors, porches, and asphalt should all be avoided. Don’t lie on concrete floors and leaning against concrete walls. Any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring may conduct lightning.

Keep your distance from water.

Stay away from water. During a thunderstorm, avoid bathing, showering, washing dishes, or having any other contact with water because lightning can pass through a building's plumbing.

Don’t Use Electricity 

Electronic devices should be avoided. Computers, printers, game consoles, washers, dryers, stoves, and anything else with an electrical outlet should not be used. Electrical equipment, radio and television reception systems, and any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring may all be struck by lightning. Protect appliances by installing whole-house surge protectors in homes and workplaces.

Tips provided by the Centers for Disease Control; cdc.gov.