Take proper precautions when lightning strikes
As sweltering summer heat persists with the temperature rising to over 100 degrees, it’s not uncommon for an afternoon thunderstorm to appear, bringing lighting with it.
While it can strike during any season, this time of year is particularly important to be aware of the dangers of lightning.
According to the National Weather Service, lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year and about 300 people are struck by lighting. Of those struck, about 30 people are killed and others suffer lifelong disabilities.
In Colorado, about 500,000 lightning flashes hit the ground in an average year, since 1980 Colorado has had 100 fatal lightning strikes and nearly 500 lightning related injuries.
The NWS collects information on weather-related deaths to learn how to prevent these tragedies. Many lightning victims say they were “caught” outside in the storm and couldn’t get to a safe place. Other victims simply waited too long before seeking shelter. With proper planning, similar tragedies can be avoided.
Keep in mind that no place outside is safe when a thunderstorm is in the area. Get inside as soon as you hear thunder. Run to a substantial building or hardtopped metal vehicle as fast as you can and stay there for at least 30 minutes after you hear the last thunder. While 30 minutes may seem like a long time, it is necessary to be safe.
If you can’t get to a safe building or vehicle:
• Avoid open areas. Don’t be the tallest object in the area;
• Stay away from isolated tall trees, towers, utility poles. Lightning tends to strike the taller objects in the area;
• Stay away from metal conductors such as wires or fences. Metal does not attract lightning, but lightning can travel long distances through it;
• If you are with a group of people, spread out. While this actually increases the chance that someone might get struck, it tends to prevent multiple casualties and increases the chances that someone could help if a person is struck.
Cardiac arrest is the immediate cause of death for those who die. Understand that lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and may need first aid immediately. If someone is struck:
• Call for help. Call 9-1-1;
• Give first aid. Begin CPR if you are trained;
• Use an Automatic External Defibrillator if one is available. These units are life savers;
• Don’t be a victim. If possible, move the victim to a safer place. Lightning CAN strike twice.
Lightning strikes may be rare, but they still happen. When the next thunderstorm hits use common sense and keep yourself safe.
“Get inside as soon as you hear thunder. Run to a substantial building or hard-topped metal vehicle as fast as you can and stay there for at least 30 minutes after you last hear thunder.”