How to Avoid Getting Hit by Lightning
Lightening is associated with fear and horror in movies, literature and in reality. This form of electricity is a cruel one and does not spare anything that can provide passage to it to the ground. Yes! Lightening looks for tall objects like trees, poles and even humans which can conduct the charge to the ground. Every year the newspapers report accidents where lightening struck a person causing severe injury or death, especially during the rainy season. If you are unfortunate to be out on such a time, you have to rely on some defensive acts to escape the horror. Our step by step guide has some tips:
Instructions
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1
Keep a lightening detector:
This is a small device, easy to carry and has a lightening warning system. It lets you know when lightening is a far as 4o km away so you have time to go indoors and make safety measurements.
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2
Look for shelter:
Run for the nearest building with low head. You can even wait in shops or somebody's lawn or garage, telling them your valid reason. Your life is at risk here and most people will understand
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3
Avoid being in the open:
Avoid being in an open field where you are the tallest object during this time. If you are unfortunate enough to be in one, crouch down on one feet, reducing the surface area in contact with the ground with your head bowed. Do not lie flat, your head should be low but not touching the ground. What you are trying to do is to appear unattractive to lightening by lying low and reducing the contact with the ground. Drop your umbrella or any other pointed thing. Throw away anything metal on you including jewelry. Keep away from metal rods and posts like the street lamps.
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4
A car might be the best option:
The metaled body of the car conducts the electricity and discharges it to the ground without any effect on the interior. You are safe inside it. In the car avoid touching the metal parts.
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5
No trees:
Trees might just appear as the perfect hideout while the lightening lasts but their length makes them a favorite route. The static charge passing through the bark of a tree might also catch you on its way.
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6
While inside:
Avoid taking shower or swimming while it is lightening outside. Keep away from electric circuits and the phone. The electricity can conduct through the copper and effect you. Use a cordless phone or cell phone. Although PVC has greatly reduced the risk, metal plumbing wires are also known to conduct the electricity.
