What to do When Caught in a Lightning Storm | SERVPRO® of Montgomery

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

“Lightning storms pose an imminent threat of harm to yourself and your home. SERVPRO of Montgomery is ready when disaster strikes."

Severe weather has been knocking on our doorstep lately. You have heard us speak about tornadoes and thunderstorms. Now, let’s discuss the dangers of lightning storms and tips and tricks on staying safe. 

Lightning is extremely dangerous. In fact, over the last 30 years, lightning has killed an average of sixty-seven people per year. Most lightning-related deaths are preventable if you take the proper measures.

Remain Weather Alert 

First and foremost, your safety is what matters. Watch the local news to catch forecasts of upcoming severe weather events and be prepared to take shelter if needed. Keep multiple sources nearby to ensure you receive weather alerts. Cancel events when news of potential high-risk weather is coming. Hot, muggy days are just what a thunderstorm needs to breed additional storm cells.

Find Shelter 

When the storm approaches, take shelter. If you detect lightning, it is already close enough to strike. Do not stand under trees or in flat, open spaces. These areas can attract lightning strikes. If you cannot find a building, a vehicle with a metal roof and sides will suffice. The car will conduct electricity around you, not through you.

If you cannot find shelter in a building or a vehicle, find a place where you are shorter than your surroundings. Standing near light poles or isolated objects, lying down on concrete, and leaning on concrete walls should be avoided. Concrete has wire mesh inside the material and will attract lightning. Once you have found somewhere safe, assume the "Lightning crouch" position.

Lightning Crouch? 

Squat down with your feet together. Tuck your head to your chest or between your knees. Cover your ears or place your hands flat against your knees. Do not lie flat on the ground, giving the lightning a larger target. 

Be Mindful of Your Surroundings 

Stay away from water, such as swimming pools and bathtubs. Do not touch anything electric like outlets or appliances. Do not go near windows or any glass panels. Glass provides a direct path for lightning to travel into. Do not forget to bring your pets inside during a storm. 

Did you know landline phones are the leading cause of lighting-related injuries? Cordless phones and wireless phones are safe for use during a storm.

Be Alert for an Imminent Lightning Strike 

If lightning is about to strike near you, your hair may stand on end, or you may feel a tingling on your skin. Light metal objects may vibrate, and you may hear a cracking sound. If you detect any of these signals, immediately assume the lightning crouch position. Lightning can also travel from one person to another. Ensure you have fifty to one hundred feet between each person when with a group of people. 

What to do When Struck by Lightning 

If someone is struck by lightning, call emergency services first. Despite the common myth, lightning CAN strike the same place twice. Make sure it is safe to help someone if they are struck by lightning. Do not endanger yourself trying to help a victim. Either wait until after the threat has passed or move the victim to a safer location.  

Lightning can cause cardiac arrest and requires aggressive resuscitation methods. Begin CPR on the lightning strike victim immediately. Do not remove burned clothing unless necessary. Treat the victim for shock by laying the victim down on their back with the head resting slightly lower than the torso. Be sure to elevate and support their legs. It is always best to have an emergency kit ready with first aid and disaster essentials. 

Remember that being struck by lightning is extraordinarily rare but not unheard of. Protect yourself, take precautions, and plan your response.

In the last few weeks, SERVPRO of Montgomery has received multiple calls from owners whose homes have been struck by lightning. Should you find yourself in this situation, call us at 334.284.1612 for all your storm remediation needs.