To the great misfortune of those who fear them, storms are very frequent during the summer months. However, these are the seasons most conducive to outdoor activities and there is therefore a greater risk of accidents. It can sometimes be difficult to know what to do or not to do and how to take shelter to avoid problems. Here we summarize some actions to take… or not at all so as not to take any risks when the storm arrives! Safety comes first with these few rules of caution to follow.
1) How to choose your shelter in the event of a storm?
Anything that points towards the sky (like trees or a shed) should definitely be forgotten. Outdoors, you can encourage a car with windows tightly closed which will act like a Faraday cage. Above all, stay in your car if you are surprised by a thunderstorm while driving and stay if possible stationary, far from trees. Furthermore, do not touch the metal parts of the vehicle. Another option is of course inside your home even if lightning can strike the electrical network or follow the pipes, hence the importance ofavoid taking a shower or bath when thunder is thundering.
Do you go camping? In this case, note thata tent does not offer sufficient protection against lightning. Go to a concrete area or crouch on the ground. And if you’re in an RV, make sure it’s well insulated and stay inside. If you are outdoors and cannot find shelter, look for a low and dry ground. Avoid hills, ridges and open spaces.
2) Can we call?
Cell phones are not not dangerous. You can therefore use them without the risk of getting caught in lightning. On the other hand, selfie sticks are potential lightning rods! As for the landline, unplug it, as it is an entry point for electricity into the house. The risk of surge is enormous. Finally, some unusual information: the phone booth is not a reliable shelter. In short, if you travel to a country where they still exist, don’t hide inside.
3) What about the umbrella?
Better do not shelter under. Even if it rains, you cannot trust the metal tip of the umbrella. Use only if it does not contain iron.
4) What if you want to swim during a storm?
That wouldn’t be your best idea… Indeed, your protruding head would be a direct target for lightning ! It is better to slowly exit anything that comes near or far from a body of water (sea, lake, river, etc.), move away and lie flat on the sand.
5) Running for shelter, is that the best thing to do when the storm surprises us?
The less your body is exposed to air, the better ! If you want to protect yourself, crouch in a ball with your head between your shoulders. Standing with your legs apart, especially when running, increases the risk of electrocution from stepping voltage. The greater the distance between the legs, the more you risk this electrocution which strikes thousands of cows each year. Also make sure to place your feet on an insulating material (skin jacket, backpack, rope, etc.).
Are you out with your friends, family or other loved ones? In this case, avoid grouping together. Separate yourself at least three meters away from each other to reduce the risk of lightning spreading from one person to another.
Some additional tips
How to prepare before the storm?
Before the storm, check the weather forecast to plan your activities accordingly and have a surge protector installed. Also have a first aid kit, flashlight and spare batteries handy. Moreover, unplug electronic devices to avoid power surges as well as the television antenna and avoid using plugged-in electrical appliances. Also close windows and doors to prevent rainwater from entering and stay away from windows. In addition, remember to protect your garden and bring in exterior elements that are sensitive to wind.
Above all, avoid outdoor activities as much as possible.including swimming and hiking. If you absolutely must go out, locate safe shelters such as cars or buildings in case of lightning.
First aid: how to react if lightning strikes?
People struck by lightning do not retain an electrical charge. So it is safe to touch them to provide first aid. Your first instinct, however, should be to contact emergency services immediately. Check to see if the victim is breathing and has a pulse. If she is unconscious but breathing, place her in the recovery position (PLS). If she is not breathing, start CPR immediately (with chest compressions or a defibrillator). Above all, avoid moving the victim unless there is imminent danger. Finally, cover her with a blanket to avoid hypothermia and reassure her while waiting for help.