How Not to Get Struck by Lightning

Cade Lennox 

Lightning storms are quite common in many cities. Everywhere you go you can expect to see lightning strikes.

When you see lightning do not let your jaw drop forgetting about how dangerous lighting is. Follow these steps to stay clear of lightning.

Lighting loves a long rainy day, and even short rainy day. Regardless of the rain you should take caution if you are at least ten miles from a storm.

Follow the thirty by thirty rule which states: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder.

Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.

You can avoid lightning if you are not on high ground; however this is not always true. Lightning has a tendency to strike the tallest object; however wherever there is enough of a difference of magnetism, lightning can strike.

If it is raining find shelter. Forget about how much fun you might be having, it is a matter of statistics that you could be struck by lightning.

Never take shelter under a tree as this offers very little protection. Hiding under a tree can actually increase the odds that you will be struck.

Do not take showers when it is raining outside.

You can also take measures to prepare your home from lightning. Homes are often damaged from lightning storms.

If lightning strikes your homes electrical system could get damaged. Air conditioning units can become completely unrecognizable from a bolts intense heat.

Place surge protectors on all costly electronic devices.

Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall on your home. Falling branches can damage your roof and also cause injury.

Secure outdoor object that could blow away or cause damage.

Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available close your window blinds or shades.

Aside from these physical things there are other safety measures that you can take. Watch the news and find ways to stay informed about whether conditions.

Take time and familiarize yourself with the term thunderstorm watch. This term means that there is a possibility of a thunderstorm in your local area.

Another term that goes along with the first is a thunderstorm warning. The term means that a thunderstorm is occurring or is likely to occur soon.

Follow the advice of news and local authorities. If they advise that you take shelter, do so immediately.

Think about reviewing in your head the things that you might do if you were to face a lightning disaster. Just like any hazard or disaster you should be prepared for the worst.

Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit and Prepare your family by telling them what they can do. Make a family emergency plan.

Include in that plan a time to inform babysitters and caregivers about your plan. Get training to learn how to respond to someone who has been struck by lightning.