Lighting storms

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

It’s hard to know what to do when you are caught out in the open during a lightning storm. To take shelter under a big tree? To stand out in the open?

The best strategy is prevention. Monitor the weather forecast before going out, and look for darkening skies, lightning, or increasing wind. You are in danger if you can hear thunder. Therefore, find shelter in either a building or car.

If you are in the open, then be a very small target! Squat low to the ground. Lying on the ground will actually make you a larger target. If you are in the woods, then take shelter under shorter trees or go to a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles, or metal objects. If you are boating or swimming, then get to shore and find shelter.

Call 911 if someone is struck by lightning. If the person’s breathing has stopped, then begin rescue breathing. A trained person should give CPR if the victim’s heart has stopped breathing.