Quick Answer
When outdoors during thunderstorms, stay away from tall objects like trees, light poles, and buildings, and avoid standing in open areas. Crouch low with your feet together to minimize your risk of being struck. Avoid using metal objects and keep away from groups of people.
Lightning Strike Safety Precautions
When a thunderstorm is approaching, pay attention to signs like darkening skies, increasing wind, and a decrease in temperature. If you hear thunder, count the seconds between the lightning flash and the thunder to estimate the distance of the storm. A general rule of thumb is to wait 30 seconds after the last thunder for each mile of distance between you and the lightning.
Identifying Safe Locations
To reduce your risk of being struck by lightning, find a safe location that is low-lying and away from tall objects. Avoid areas with a high concentration of metal objects, such as golf courses, athletic fields, and construction sites. In a forest, seek out a small group of trees or a cluster of dense foliage to provide natural protection from lightning.
Post-Storm First Aid
If you are struck by lightning, provide first aid immediately. If the person is unresponsive, not breathing, or not breathing normally, begin CPR by giving 30 chest compressions and two breaths. If the person is conscious but has burns or other injuries, apply cool water to the affected area for 10-15 minutes to reduce the risk of further injury. Monitor the person’s neurological status, looking for signs of seizures, confusion, or loss of coordination, as these can be indicative of a lightning strike’s effects on the brain.
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