Lightning Safety and Facts

Thunderstorms can happen anywhere in the world at any time of the day. We’ve seen our fair share of them recently, so it’s time to brush up on our lightning facts and safety information.

Before we start, look over these National Weather Service lightning myths to erase any wrong, and potentially harmful, “facts”.

Over the past 30 years lightning has caused an average of 58 deaths per year, according to The U.S. Natural Hazard Statistics.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Cherie A. Thurlby. Public Domain)

There are some simple ways, however, to make sure that you remain safe. The most important thing to remember is: if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.

Before the storms hits take a few precautions to make sure you’re prepared:

• Always have an emergency preparedness kit ready.
• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm.
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail.

When the thunderstorm actually hits:

• Listen to local weather forecasts and keep an eye on the sky.
• Find shelter in a building or car. Keep car windows closed and avoid convertibles.
• Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. (Leaving electric lights on, however, does not increase the chances of your home being struck by lightning.)
• Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressor, resulting in a costly repair job!

When the storm passes:

• Stay away from storm-damaged areas.
• Listen to the radio for information and instructions.
• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

If someone is struck by lightning:

• Call for help. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. Anyone who has sustained a lightning strike requires professional medical care.
• The injured person has received an electrical shock and may be burned, both where they were struck and where the electricity left their body. Check for burns in both places. Being struck by lightning can also cause nervous system damage, broken bones, and loss of hearing or eyesight.
• Give first aid. If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR. If the person has a pulse and is breathing, look and care for other possible injuries.

There are always more things you can do to stay safe. Read up on how lightning functions and how to stay safe [pdf].