Reduce the risk of being struck by lightning
Understanding the risks and how to prevent injury from lightning is essential.
That’s according to Shawn Herbst of the medical emergency services, Netcare 911.
According to Herbst, the primary risk factor remains not reacting to the threat of a lightning strike in time. Protection from lightning entails, avoiding being outside in an open space during thunderstorms.
*By hearing thunder, you are in range of a lightning strike. Seek shelter immediately!
*Avoid contact with conductive material, such as computers and landline telephones.
Do not carry tall metal objects during thunderstorms, like golf clubs or fishing rods.
Also read: Safety tips for driving in wet weather
*Avoid being in or near water and elevated areas and tall objects.
*A car can be a good shelter. Close all the windows and do not touch any metal part of the vehicle.
*A golf car is not a safe or suitable shelter.
*Wait at least 30 minutes after the last observed lightning strike or thunder before going outside in an open-spaced area again. If there no shelter, one should crouch low and put your hands on your knees or over your ears to protect them from the noise of the thunder.
Also read: Tuesday Life Hack: 6 tips for driving in wet weather
If there are other people around, one should ensure that you are at least 4 to 5 metres apart.
Lightning tends to strike the tallest objects in the area. Because of this, one must make sure they are not the tallest object in the area.
If someone is struck by lightning, the person is safe to touch and immediately start CPR if the person is not breathing and does not have a pulse.
Seek emergency medical care immediately by dialing Netcare 911 on 082 911.
