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When a Storm Approaches...
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Find shelter
in a building or car. Keep car windows closed and avoid
convertibles.
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Telephone
lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances.
Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. (Leaving
electric lights on, however, does not increase the chances of your
home being struck by lightning.)
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Avoid taking a
bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose.
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Turn off the
air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the
compressor, resulting in a costly repair job!
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Draw blinds
and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blown by
the wind, the shades will prevent glass from shattering into your
home.
After
the Storm Passes...
If Someone is Struck by Lightning...
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People struck
by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.
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Call for help.
Get someone to dial 9-1-1 or your local Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) number.
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The injured
person has received an electrical shock and may be burned, both
where they were struck and where the electricity left their body.
Check for burns in both places. Being struck by lightning can also
cause nervous system damage, broken bones, and loss of hearing or
eyesight.
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Give first
aid. If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing. If the heart
has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR. If the person
has a pulse and is breathing, look and care for other possible
injuries. Learn first aid and CPR by taking a Red Cross first aid
and CPR course. Call your
local Red Cross chapter
for class schedules and fees.
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