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Lightning safety tips: What you need to know to stay safe

Digital WritersThe Weather Network
Digital Writers
Published on Jun. 18, 2019, 5:29 PM
Updated on Jun. 22, 2021, 2:05 PM

‘When thunder roars, go indoors’ is more than just a catchy rhyme — it is sound advice that could save your life if caught outside before or during a thunderstorm.

Now that active weather season is starting to ramp up across Canada, officials are reminding residents to take precautions when thunderstorms strike.

To ensure that you stay safe in events where lightning is present, The Weather Network has compiled a list of lightning safety tips with the help of the Red Cross.

INDOOR LIGHTNING SAFETY TIPS

  • Stay away from windows.

  • Unplug appliances.

  • Do not use the telephone.

  • Avoid running tap water.

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OUTDOOR LIGHTNING SAFETY TIPS

  • Try to reach a safe building or vehicle (picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT safe).

  • Avoid high ground, water, tall, isolated trees and metal objects such as fences or bleachers.

  • If you are out on the water, get to land and find shelter immediately.

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IF SOMEONE IS STRUCK BY LIGHTNING

  • Call for help / dial 911.

  • The injured person has received an electrical shock and may be burned or have other injuries.

  • People who have been struck by lightning do not retain an electrical charge and can be handled safely.

  • Give first aid. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR.

Officials offer a 30-30 rule as well. They say if you can count 30 seconds or less between seeing a lightning flash and hearing the thunder, take shelter and stay there until 30 minutes after you last hear thunder.

Watch the video that leads this article for more information regarding lightning safety featuring Dr. David Sills, Executive Director of the Northern Tornadoes Project.

Source: Red Cross