How to be safe from lightning: Lightning safety measures

Lightning is a remarkable yet dangerous phenomenon of nature. It can cause severe injuries, fires, and even lead to death. Each year thousands of lightning strikes on earth. Due to negligence or unaware of the basic lightning safety measures, many people lose their precious life. Learning basic safety procedures and adapting to lightning conductors or protection systems are crucial to ensure safety. 

In this blog, let’s examine the most effective and proactive strategies you can take to shield yourself from lightning.  

Recognize the Danger of Lightning Strikes

A storm lightning can strike with no warning. Its reach is far beyond the open fields and even the peaks of trees that are tall. Schools, homes as well as those who are in their homes are vulnerable if simple safety practices are not followed. Lightning strikes costs many fatalities each year in India. To learn more about the fatalities caused by lightning, take a look at this detailed article on lightning fatalities for crucial safety insights. The best protection is to be aware of the dangers promptly and take action whenever lightning-like warning signs appear.

1. Stay Up-to-Date on Weather 

One of the simplest strategies to avoid lightning injury is to monitor the weather ahead of time. Look at local forecasts prior to engaging in an outdoor activity, and then use apps that send alert notifications in case of storms in the forecast ahead of time. If forecasters indicate thunder, postpone the outdoor activities; errands, work or play can always be delayed until after the storm.

2. Use the 30-30 Rule 

Lightning security is based on a simple practice known as”30-30″ rule. When you see lightning, begin counting. stop when thunder hits your ears. If the clock is reading 30 seconds or less lightning is very close. Seek sturdy cover at once. After the last clap, take 30 minutes to wait before going back out.

3. Make sure to shelter yourself in the possibility of a severe storm.

The safest place to shelter in an emergency is to have air inside the structure or inside cars. Lightning can cut wires, therefore keep away from cellphones, computers and other electronic devices completely plugged in. Avoid windows, doors, and any water pipes made of steel or fixtures that may be carrying electricity.

4. Find Shelter from Open Spaces and tall objects 

if you’re out in the rain Be sure to not go to shelter in the trees, or under temporary structures such as tents. Anywhere you go seek refuge from tall poles or open spaces such as fields because they are the places you’re more likely to be struck. Also, avoid large bodies of water such as pools or lakes as water is a powerful conductor of electricity.

5. Install Lightning Protection Systems

Installing lightning protection system is one of the more viable methods of ensuring safety from lightning, for homes and buildings. Lightning protection systems are designed to safely direct the lightning to ground, significantly diminished risk for fire or damage. You will want to consult with lightning protection experts to protect your property.

6. Do Not Go Near Water

The water in your home is not safe when it is thundering outside. Do not bathe, shower, or wash dishes when there is lightning. Lightning can travel through plumbing pipes in your home and result in serious injury. This is about as easy of a safety precaution as possible, wait until the storm has passed!

7. Avoid Electrical Equipments

 Making use of appliances during a storm could be risky. Equipment that is sensitive like computers and televisions should not be plugged in to decrease the chance of being damaged if a lightning strike causes an electrical surge. Avoid touching electrical switches or connected equipment when lightning is present within the vicinity. 

8. Teach Kids Lightning Safety

Teaching children about lightning safety procedures is very important and well worth your time. Show them where to go once you identify that there is a storm. Teach them the dangers of being outside playing with lightning in the area. Education can help prevent injuries!

Final Thoughts

Lightning can be a natural danger If you take the proper lightning safety guidelines will greatly decrease the chance of injury. Always be alert, find secure shelter and utilize security systems when you can. Being well-prepared and knowing what to do could save lives. Adapt to reliable lightning protection system to save your properties from dangerous lightning strikes.

Keep yourself informed. Stay inside. Be secure.