Lightning is one of nature’s most fearsome constructs, striking with millions of volts of electricity at random across the landscape. While the odds are against you ever getting struck by lightning, it does happen, and the people that it happens to are forever changed by the experience. Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to reduce the risk of being hit by a lightning strike. Here are four tips for keeping you and your family safe during a lightning storm.
1. Seek Shelter
Being indoors during a lightning storm is much safer than being outside. If you hear thunder or see lightning, make sure that you start moving to shelter right away. Any substantial, non-concrete shelter will work in a pinch, but if nothing suitable is nearby, get into your car until the storm passes.
2. Stay Away From Water
Lightning that hits the house can travel through the plumbing, making sinks, tubs, and showers very dangerous during a lightning storm. Avoid contact with water until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
3. Stay Away From Electric Devices
Lightning can also travel through the electrical system of a home, traveling through wires to anything connected to an electrical outlet. Corded phones can also be dangerous. Surge protection can help protect your appliances and other devices from damage.
4. Avoid Concrete Walls and Floors
Walls and floors made with concrete are often reinforced with metal wires and bars, allowing electricity to pass through them easily. Laying on a concrete floor or leaning against a concrete wall during a lightning storm could allow that electricity to also pass through you.
How to Help a Lightning Strike Victim
While lightning storms are common here in Rochester, MN, the chances of you being struck by a bolt of lightning are very small. If someone is struck by lightning, the following tips could save their life:
- Call for medical help immediately. Cell phones and cordless phones are safe to use during a storm.
- Check for a heartbeat. If no pulse is detected, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and continue until medical assistance arrives.
- Check for breathing. If they are not breathing, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
- Check for bleeding and broken bones. Do not move the victim if they are severely injured.
- Keep the victim as warm and safe as possible until help arrives.
These safety tips can help you protect yourself, your family, and your home from the dangers of lightning strikes. Paxton Electric has been helping families in the Rochester, MN area with home surge protection and other electrical services for years. Call us today, and we will be happy to answer all of your questions.
