Stay safe during electrical storms
Approximately 260 people in South Africa iare killed by lightning annually
Lightning can be beautiful at times, but it presents a deadly and very real threat to those caught in the open during an electrical or thunderstorm.
South Africa is well known for electrical storms and lightning and, according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS) approximately 260 people are killed by lightning annually.
The impact of lightning on the human body can be very severe. Lightning strikes to the body cause severe electrical shocks that affect every organ and tissue, resulting in extensive damage.
Some of the after effects of a lightning strike include cardiac and pulmonary arrest, temporary paralysis, deafness and minor to severe burns.
Although it is not always possible to predict where and when lightning will strike, you can be be prepared with the following tips to help keep you and your family safe during lightning activity:
– Thunder and lightning usually start some time before it starts to rain – do not wait for the rain to start before taking action and moving to an area of safety.
– The golden rule when it comes to thunder and lightning when outdoors is: when it roars get indoors.
– If possible, avoid being outdoors when there is lightning activity.
– Head inside a proper building at the first sign of lightning.
– If you cannot make it safely into a building, get into a vehicle and ensure the windows are shut. Even though a car is made out of metal it is a safe place to find shelter. It acts as a “Faraday cage”, which prevents a current from flowing through the vehicle and its occupants.
– If you are out in an open field and are unable to get to another area of safety, lie or crouch down on the ground util the storm has passed.
– If you are playing any form of sports, make sure your friends accompany you indoors.
– Do not stand under porches, canopies, picnic shelters or trees – they do not provide much protection from direct strikes or electrical splashes coming from other objects hit by lightning.
– At all times – indoors or out – avoid water, as it is an excellent conductor for electricity.
– Stay away from trees, water, high ground or open fields.
– Avoid metal objects such as flag and light poles.
– Avoid using umbrellas and golf clubs.
– As lightning may strike the water’s edge – do not go swimming or stand on a beach.
– Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap to be safe.
– Remember to bring your pets inside as doghouses and other pet shelters are not suitable protection against lighting strikes.
This is definitely the time to rather be safe than sorry. Be cautious and aware during electrical storms and do not take unnecessary risks. Stay safe!
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