Stay Safe During Thunderstorms

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe!

Most people don’t think much of a thunderstorm – but they can be very dangerous! It’s important to stay safe.

Risk of Lightning Strikes!

Although the odds of being struck by lighting are small, there are still some factors that can put you at a higher risk. Lightning tends to strike people who work outside or are participating in outdoor recreational activities.

How to stay safe:

• If the weather forecast is calling for a thunderstorm, postpone your trip or activity.
• When you hear thunder, go indoors! Find a safe enclosed shelter – this includes homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.
• Suspend any outdoor activities for at least 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.
• If you are caught outside and cannot find shelter, crouch or get low to the ground – but never lie flat to keep minimal contact with the ground. Get off any elevated areas such as hills or mountains. Never shelter under a tree or a cliff/rock overhang. Immediately get out of and away from ponds, lakes, and any other bodies of water. Stay away from any objects that can conduct electricity, such as powerlines. All of these actions will reduce your chances of being struck.

Remain Safe, Even When You're Inside!

Being indoors can still put you at risk. In fact, one-third of lightning strikes occur indoors.

How to stay safe:

• Avoid contact with water during a thunderstorm – don’t bathe, shower, wash dishes, or any other water-based activity. Lightning can travel through plumbing.
• Avoid using any electronic equipment. Lightning can travel through electrical systems and radio/television reception systems.
• Avoid using corded phones – cordless or cell phones are safe though!
• Do not lean again concrete floors or walls, as lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars inside of them.

Your safety always comes first! But if your property becomes damaged during a storm, we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester! (484) 841-6669