Lighting Storms
Lightning kills more people annually than any other weather incident. At any given time there are over 2,000 thunderstorms happening around the world. Lightning strikes somewhere over 100 times each second. Lighting storms mainly occur in the spring and summer. When lighting storm strike, high winds may occur, which could lead to tornados. To often people will remain outside when lightning is striking not concerned that it could acutely hit them. It may not, yet respect for Mother Nature is vital in these situations, because the risk may be more than you can afford when it comes to survival.
When a storm is coming:
Do not plan any activities out doors.
Stay out of water, lakes, rivers, etc..
Avoid hilltops, open fields, metal objects (fences) and sheds.
Listen to the radio or T.V. for updates on storm. Avoid carports, picnic shelters, areas that are not fully enclosed, attempt to be in an enclosed building when possible.
During a lighting storm:
If outside seek shelter in a ditch or hollow.
If no shelter available kneel on the ground and lean forward with your head lower than your back, without touching the ground, and put hands on your thighs. Kneel on a plastic sheet, sleeping pad, or item that can isolate you from the ground.
Stay in a shelter area for at least thirty minutes after the last lightning strikes around you.
If anyone is hit by lighting attend to the injury with your first aid kit, dont be afraid to touch a person after they have been hit by lighting. Administer CPR as needed, looking behind any jewelry for hidden burns.
Call emergency professionals immediately or as soon as possible.
Post storm:
Check out all your electronics, heating, air conditioning or other systems in your home to ensure there is no damage.
If your home is struck by lighting quickly look throughout your home for fire. It can spread fast without notice, even before your smoke alarm will go off.
After checking your home take time to evaluate how you dealt with the emergency. Where you ready? What could you have done better?
