Staying Safe During a Lightning Storm

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bay County offers Storm Damage Restoration in Panama City Beach, Panama City, Callaway, Mexico Beach, and surrounding areas.

During a thunderstorm or severe weather event, lighting can be a very dangerous situation for you and your loved ones.  According to the National Weather Service, there is a great deal of information to be aware of, and many precautions that you can take, to help protect yourself from being struck by lightning:

Lightning- What you Need to Know:

1. If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.
2. If you hear thunder, move to an enclosed space, such as building or metal topped vehicle for shelter: no place outside is safe during a thunderstorm.

Lightning Safety Once Indoors:

1. Stay off electronic equipment, such as computers or corded phones, that put you in direct contact with electricity.
2. Avoid plumbing, such as sinks and bathtubs, as metal piping can transmit electrical current.
3. Stay away from windows and doors; the safest area of the building is an interior room.
4. Do not lean against concrete walls or lie on concrete floors.

Lightning Strike Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips:

If you find yourself outside with no shelter option during a lighting storm, the following actions can help reduce the risk of injury from a lightning strike:

1. Search for lower ground- Avoid hills, cliffs, mountains, or any other natural structure elevates you.
2. Immediately get out of and away from all bodies of water.
3. Stay away from objects that can easily conduct electricity, such as metal fences and power lines.
4. Never seek shelter under an isolated tree, as the tree can serve as a conductor for a lightning bolt.

SERVPRO of Bay County values the safety of our community members and we hope these tips help protect you and your family.  If a storm or other disaster has affected your home our business, give us a call at 850-785-1077, We’re Here to Help!