Otis Singleton
Electrical storms can be captivating, but they also pose significant risks to life and property. Lightning is a massive discharge of electricity that occurs during a thunderstorm, and it can reach temperatures of up to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit, making it incredibly dangerous. If you're caught in an electrical storm, it's crucial to act quickly and follow safety guidelines to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your belongings. Whether you're indoors or outdoors, there are specific steps you should take to minimize the risk of lightning strikes and keep yourself and others safe.
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What You'll Learn
Stay away from water and plumbing
Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, so it's important to stay away from water sources during an electrical storm. Even a small amount of water, like a puddle, can become energised by lightning and pose a risk. If you are near a pond, lake, or other body of water, move away immediately.
It is also important to avoid plumbing fixtures during a storm. Lightning can travel through pipes and cause electrical shocks. Stay away from sinks, showers, and bathtubs, and do not wash your hands or do the dishes. It is best to avoid any contact with water during an electrical storm. If you need to use the bathroom, try to use a toilet that is not near any windows, as lightning can strike through glass and cause injury.
If you have pets, do not leave them outdoors during a lightning storm. Bring them inside and keep them away from plumbing and water sources, just as you would for yourself.
Finally, if you see a downed power line near a water source, stay at least 10 feet away from the line and anything touching it. Shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet close together, to minimise the risk of electric shock.
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Unplug electrical appliances
During an electrical storm, it is important to unplug electrical appliances and devices to prevent potential damage and reduce the risk of fire. Lightning can cause power surges that can damage or destroy electronic equipment. Here are some reasons why:
Preventing Damage: Power surges from lightning strikes can damage sensitive electronics such as computers, televisions, and other appliances. Unplugging them protects against potential damage.
Reducing Fire Risk: While rare, lightning strikes can occur even after the storm has passed. Unplugging appliances removes the risk of electrical fires if lightning strikes your home or building.
Safety: If lightning strikes nearby, it can create a path of electricity through conductive materials, including electrical wiring and plumbing. Unplugging appliances removes the risk of electrical shocks or fires from these potential paths.
Surge Protection: If you have surge protectors, they can provide added protection for your devices. However, it's still recommended to unplug sensitive equipment for added safety.
Avoid Water Contact: Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and lightning can energize even small amounts of water. By unplugging appliances, you reduce the risk of electrical shocks or damage if water comes into contact with electrical outlets or appliances.
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Do not use corded phones
While lightning can be fascinating to witness from a safe distance, it can also pose a significant threat to life and property. Lightning is a massive discharge of electricity that occurs during a thunderstorm. It is caused by the buildup of static electricity within storm clouds, and when the electrical charge becomes too great, it seeks a path to discharge, often through the shortest route to the ground. This rapid discharge of electricity is what we observe as lightning.
During an electrical storm, it is imperative to refrain from using corded phones. This includes landline phones connected to an outside wire or corded telephones within your home. Lightning can travel through these wires and pose a severe risk of electrocution. In rare instances, lightning has travelled through telephone lines and caused fatal accidents. Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid using any corded phones during a thunderstorm. Instead, opt for cordless or cellular phones, which are safe to use during a storm.
The reason corded phones are unsafe during an electrical storm is that they are physically connected to external wiring, which can conduct lightning strikes. When lightning seeks a path to discharge, it can follow these wires and potentially strike the person using the corded phone. This is why it is crucial to avoid any electronics that are plugged into the wall during a thunderstorm, as they pose a similar danger.
To ensure your safety during an electrical storm, it is best to stay indoors and refrain from using any electrical appliances or devices. Unplug sensitive electronics and avoid contact with plumbing fixtures, as lightning can travel through pipes and electrical wiring. Remember, lightning can strike even after the rain has stopped, so it is recommended to wait for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before venturing outdoors.
By following these precautions and avoiding the use of corded phones during an electrical storm, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury to yourself and others. It is always better to be cautious and take the necessary steps to protect yourself from the destructive forces of nature.
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Protect your pets
If you have pets, it's important to bring them inside during an electrical storm. Doghouses are not safe shelters, and chained animals can easily become victims of lightning strikes. If your pet wears a metal collar, leash, or harness, replace it with plastic. Metal does not attract electricity, but it is a good conductor and can make injuries worse if your pet is struck.
If you are caught outside with your pet during a lightning storm, act quickly to find shelter. Crouch down in a ball-like position with your head tucked and your hands over your ears. Make sure you are in an open area with minimal contact with the ground. Do not shelter under an isolated tree, and stay away from bodies of water, tall structures, and metal objects such as fences and power lines.
If you are in a car with your pet during a lightning storm, slow down and use extra caution. Pull off the road into a safe area if possible, and stay inside the vehicle. Do not use electronic devices such as radios or phones with cords.
Once the storm has passed, wait at least thirty minutes before going outside again. If your pet is anxious or stressed after the storm, provide comfort and reassurance in a calm and gentle manner.
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If caught outside, find shelter
If you are caught outside during an electrical storm, it is crucial to act quickly and find adequate shelter to minimize the risk of lightning strikes. Here are some detailed instructions to follow in such a situation:
Locate a Substantial Building or Vehicle
The ideal shelter during a lightning storm is a fully enclosed building or a hard-topped metal vehicle. These structures provide protection from lightning strikes and reduce your exposure to the elements. If you can see a substantial building nearby, make your way towards it. If there are no buildings in the vicinity, look for a parked car, minivan, bus, or truck with a metal roof.
Do Not Seek Shelter Under Trees
While it may be tempting to take cover under a tree, especially if you are in a forested area, it is important to remember that trees can attract lightning strikes. Never seek shelter under an isolated tree, and if you are in a forest, move towards the lower trees while still maintaining a safe distance from them.
Stay Away from Bodies of Water
Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, so it is crucial to stay away from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water. Even a small amount of water, like a puddle, can become energized during a lightning storm and pose a risk.
Crouch Low to the Ground
If you cannot find adequate shelter and need to remain in an open area, crouch down in a ball-like position. Tuck your head and cover your ears with your hands, ensuring minimal contact with the ground. While this does not eliminate the danger, it reduces your exposure and makes you less visible, decreasing the chances of a direct lightning strike.
Stay Away from Conductive Materials
If you manage to find shelter inside a building or vehicle, avoid touching conductive materials that could be connected to the exterior. This includes plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, and corded telephones. Lightning can travel through these conductive paths and pose a risk of electrical shock or fire.
Remember, the best way to protect yourself during an electrical storm is to plan ahead and monitor weather conditions. Stay informed about upcoming storms using weather apps or radios, and try to be indoors in a safe location before the storm hits.
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Frequently asked questions
Seek shelter immediately. If possible, get inside a substantial enclosed building or a hard-topped metal vehicle. If you are in an open area, crouch down in a ball-like position with your head tucked and hands over your ears.
Stay away from windows, doors, and plumbing fixtures. Do not use corded phones or electronic devices. Unplug any sensitive devices to prevent potential damage from power surges.
Move at least 10 feet away from the line and anything touching it. Shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground to minimize the risk of electric shock. Do not attempt to move the power line or touch anything in contact with it.
