Lightning Safety

Key Notes :

  1. What is Lightning:
    • Lightning is a sudden and powerful electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms.
  2. How Lightning Forms:
    • Lightning forms when there is a buildup of electrical charges within clouds. These charges are discharged as lightning when they become too great to be contained within the cloud.
  3. Dangers of Lightning:
    • Lightning can be extremely dangerous as it can cause fires, damage structures, and harm people and animals.
    • It can cause injuries or even fatalities when it strikes individuals directly or through conductive materials.
  4. Safety Tips:
    • Indoors is Safest: When there is lightning, the safest place to be is indoors. Stay away from windows, doors, and electrical appliances.
    • Avoid Water: Avoid taking a bath or shower, washing dishes, or swimming during a thunderstorm.
    • Unplug Electronics: Unplug electronic devices and appliances to protect them from power surges.
    • Stay Away from Tall Objects: Do not stand near tall objects like trees, poles, or metal objects during a storm.
    • Lightning Safety Position: If caught outside with no shelter, crouch down with your feet close together, cover your ears, and minimize your contact with the ground.
  5. Safety Indoors:
    • Avoid using corded phones or any electronic devices connected to the wall.
    • Wait 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before going back outside.
  6. Safety Outdoors:
    • If you are outside and cannot find shelter, do not stand under trees or in open fields. Find a low-lying area and crouch down.
    • Do not seek shelter in small, isolated structures like sheds or outhouses.
  7. Lightning Myths:
    • Contrary to popular belief, rubber tires do not protect you from lightning in a car. It’s the metal frame of the car that provides protection.
  8. Teaching Others:
    • Educate your friends and family about lightning safety to keep them safe during storms.
  9. Emergency Preparedness:
    • Have an emergency kit ready with essentials like flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and non-perishable food items in case of power outages caused by lightning strikes.
  10. Lightning Detectors and Apps:
    • Some smartphones and weather apps provide real-time lightning strike alerts, which can be helpful in staying safe.

Let’s practice!