Correct behavior during a thunderstorm. Behavior during a thunderstorm: personal safety rules
Despite the beauty of nature, at times its manifestations are fraught with risk and danger for humans. One such natural phenomenon that can cause irreparable harm is a thunderstorm. It often occurs in the warm season, when people like to go out to relax outside the city, spending time near a pond or in the forest. What safety measures are there during a thunderstorm? , How to protect yourself during this period and what the consequences may be, we will consider in this article.
What is a thunderstorm and lightning strike
A thunderstorm is an atmospheric phenomenon characterized by heavy precipitation, thunder, gusty winds and lightning strikes. Its harbingers are cumulonimbus clouds, the characteristic feature of which is their dark color and oblong, elongated shape.
Lightning is one of the manifestations of a strong thunderstorm. This is an electrical atmospheric discharge that can cause a fire. Its voltage is up to 100 million V, accompanied by a shock wave of sound (thunder) and a bright light flash of a bizarre shape. On average, its length is up to 2.5 km.
When lightning strikes a person, the first to be affected are the internal organs, especially those that contain air. A sharp contraction of muscles under the influence of such power can lead to bone fractures, including the spine. Stunning, loss of orientation, shock, paralysis and death - these can be the consequences for a person from a lightning strike.
According to statistics, about 70% of her victims are men. Knowing and following basic safety rules during a thunderstorm can prevent many tragic accidents.
In open areas
If you find yourself in an area where there is absolutely no place to hide from an approaching thunderstorm (plain, field), then first determine how far the lightning is from you. To do this, you should note the time that passes between the flash and the heard clap of thunder. If the time is 3 seconds, then the distance will be 1000 m, 2 seconds - 600 m, but 1 second. indicates that a natural electrical source is only 300 m away from you.
Your safety during a thunderstorm will depend on what you do correctly. The main and most common errors:
- Trying to hide under a lonely tree or haystack
- Run, walk or stand upright
- Search and climb any height
In order to wait out a thunderstorm in an open area, you should find some kind of lowland (a hole, a ravine) or simply squat down, but not lie on the ground. The distance from tall, lonely objects should be at least 200 m. Remember that a lightning strike usually selects the tallest objects, and if you find yourself in an open area, you will be one of them. Do not go near bodies of water and do not use your phone; it is better to turn it off.
In the forest
In forest areas, it is safest to find shelter under small bushes. If there are no small bushes nearby, then there should be a distance of at least 4-5 m between the trees and you. You need to sit down in a fetal position.
You should know that just because a tree is strong and powerful, this does not mean that it can withstand a lightning strike and provide you with reliable shelter. According to statistics, most often the “victims” of thunderstorms are oaks, spruces and poplars; lightning is one of them.
There is no need to light a fire until the thunderstorm has completely stopped, because... fire can attract electrical discharges.
Near a pond or lake
Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, so during a thunderstorm you should immediately leave the pond and move away from it to a safe distance (at least 100 m). You shouldn’t wait it out on the shore in a tent or hiding under trees.
If a natural phenomenon finds you in a boat, and it’s far away from the shore, follow the following rules:
- Wet clothing can also attract lightning, as can the water surface of a body of water, so sit on anything dry. A life jacket will also work.
- Cover yourself from above with an awning or cellophane, but in such a way that it never touches the water.
In addition to water and wet clothes, the following things can attract lightning: a working mobile phone, an umbrella (especially knitting needles and a rod), any metal items (keys, tools).
If you come on vacation in a car, you can wait out the bad weather in it. You should close the windows, do not turn on the engine and lower the radio antenna. No need to touch door handles or keys.
In room
As a rule, thanks to lightning rods, a room is the safest place to wait out a thunderstorm. But, there is the option of encountering ball lightning, which can often enter any room through open vents, windows and doors. In case you are waiting out a natural phenomenon at home:
- Eliminate any drafts by closing all windows and doors. Don't forget the chimney.
- Do not use a telephone, including a landline. The same applies to a fireplace or stove. Smoke from the chimney can attract thunderstorms.
- Turn off all electrical appliances and do not go near electrical wiring, sockets or panels
- Don't be near windows
- Take off your jewelry
Actions when encountering ball lightning
Safety during thunderstorms and lightning in the form of a ball depends on how much you are able to control your emotions and actions. The main thing you should remember is that such lightning appears for a maximum of 2 minutes. During this time, try not to make any movements, because... it moves with the air currents. By running, you will only force her to “chase” you. If possible, you should stay away from any electrical appliances.
If ball lightning is moving in your direction, then under no circumstances throw objects at it in an attempt to change direction. Upon collision with any object or surface, ball lightning will simply explode, which can also lead to disastrous consequences. The best option would be to slowly, without sudden movements, move away from her trajectory (only if she is still far from you). Watch your breathing, it should be slow and shallow. Be sure to freeze when the ball approaches. Moving in the direction of the air, it will simply fly to the side past you.
By following these simple rules, you will wait out the storm without consequences and can continue to enjoy your outdoor recreation.
Some information was taken from the official website of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations www.mchs.gov.ru
Lightning is a beautiful and inspiring natural phenomenon, but it can also be deadly. Statistics from the last 30 years indicate that 67 people die each year from lightning strikes in the United States alone. However, most of these deaths could have been prevented. The next time you see lightning, follow these tips.
Steps
Find shelter and stay safe
- The best option would be residential buildings (with running water, electricity and, if possible, a lightning rod).
- If there are no residential buildings nearby, hide in a car with an iron body. If lightning strikes a car, the metal casing will conduct the current. Check that all windows and doors in the car are closed. Do not lean against metal parts of the machine, otherwise the current passing through them during a lightning strike will transfer to you. Don't turn on the radio.
- Don't hide in small structures, such as free-standing public restrooms. Open shelters are also not an option. They only attract lightning and do not provide any protection.
- Under no circumstances stand under a tree. Lightning strikes tall objects, and if it strikes a tree you are standing under, the current may spread to you, or you may be injured by a falling tree or branch.
- Keep your pets safe. Dog kennels and other types of shelter for pets do not protect against lightning strikes. An animal leashed to a fence has a much higher risk of being struck by lightning.
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Don't stand near windows. Close all windows and try to stay in the inner parts of the rooms. Windows provide a direct path for lightning to pass through.
Do not touch metal objects or electrical appliances. Using landline phones during thunderstorms is a leading cause of accidents in the United States. Lightning can enter a home through any material that conducts electricity, including landlines, electrical wiring, and plumbing fixtures.
- Avoid touching electrical outlets during thunderstorms. Do not unplug devices during a thunderstorm, as electrical current may transfer to you.
- Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls. Concrete contains metal reinforcement that can conduct electricity.
- Stay away from bathtubs and showers, and avoid indoor pools.
- While in the car, try not to touch its metal or glass parts.
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Stay in cover. Do not leave your shelter for 30 minutes after the last lightning strike. Don't go out if the rain starts to subside. There is still a risk of lightning strikes from a moving thunderstorm.
Find shelter quickly. If you are caught in a thunderstorm, you can protect yourself by taking shelter in a protective structure. Although most people try to take cover when lightning is very close, some people are hesitant to seek cover. If you see lightning, it is close enough to strike you. Don't wait until it hits the ground a meter away from you (or into you) before running for cover. Never stand under a tree (high or low), or near power line supports, as both conduct current well and are extremely dangerous to life and health. Look for rocky shelter, such as a cave.
Actions during a thunderstorm in open areas
- The lower, the safer. Lightning strikes high ground. Try to be as low as possible.
- Avoid large open spaces, such as fields, where you will be the tallest object.
- Stay away from tall objects such as trees or lamp posts.
- Move away from unprotected vehicles such as golf carts and from unprotected structures such as picnic shelters. Avoid long metal structures such as bleachers.
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Get out of the water. If you were fishing or swimming, immediately get out of the water and move away from the body of water. Being near water is extremely dangerous during a thunderstorm.
Split up. If you are caught in a thunderstorm as a group, keep a distance of 15-30 meters between group members. This will reduce the risk of sequential transmission of lightning from one person to another.
- Take roll call after each lightning strike. This will allow you to quickly identify the victim and provide him with first aid.
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Take off your backpack. If you are bringing a backpack with a metal frame, remove it at the first zipper. Leave it at least 30 meters from your hiding place.
Take the appropriate posture. The safest position is considered to be the following: sit down, put your feet together, lower your head and chest onto your knees and forearms, and clasp your knees with your hands. Do not lie flat on the ground - this will increase the area of lightning strike.
- This is an uncomfortable position, but it will keep you safe. In this position, lightning will not hit vital organs, but will pass through the body, causing you less harm.
- Cover your ears and eyes to protect your hearing and vision from thunder and lightning.
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Pay attention to warning signs of lightning. Just before lightning strikes, your hair may stand on end or you may feel a slight tingling sensation in your skin. Light metal objects may vibrate and a cracking sound may be heard. If you notice any of these signs, immediately assume the pose described above.
Wear rubber boots. They isolate current well.
Reduce risk. If you cannot get to shelter, try to minimize the risk as much as possible.
Precautionary measures
- However, remember that lightning can strike without all these signs.
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Calculate the distance to the lightning. If lightning cannot be seen visually, use the 30-second rule: If the time between the flash of lightning and the sound of thunder is 30 seconds or less (10 km or less), immediately take cover.
Make an action plan. If you are in an area where thunderstorms are likely, find out where you can take shelter. Discuss the action plan with the group so everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
Prepare an emergency kit. You should have first aid supplies and other supplies on hand in case of disaster. During a thunderstorm, you may be without power, so have alternative light sources.
Install a lightning rod. If you live in an area that attracts lightning, install a lightning rod to protect your family and property.
- Install the lightning rod correctly. An incorrectly installed lightning rod will only increase the likelihood of a lightning strike.
Plan ahead. The best way to avoid injury from lightning is to avoid the lightning itself. Plan activities around the possibility of thunderstorms. Listen to your local weather forecast for any storm warnings.
Watch the sky. When you're outside, watch for changes in the sky that indicate a storm is approaching: rain, darkening, or the formation of cumulonimbus clouds. By anticipating lightning before it strikes, you can avoid a dangerous situation.
Help for lightning strike victims
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Call the rescue service. Because a lightning strike can cause cardiac arrest, a person may require resuscitation. If you cannot dial 9-1-1, ask someone else to do it.
Make sure that it is safe for you to assist the victim. Don't put yourself in danger by trying to help someone who has been struck by lightning. Either wait until the danger has passed, or drag the victim to a safer place.
- Contrary to popular belief, lightning strikes the same place twice.
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Start CPR. People struck by lightning do not retain the current, so you can immediately touch them and begin first aid. Do not remove burnt clothing unless absolutely necessary.
- Perform CPR on a child if the victim is a child.
- Give adult CPR if lightning strikes an adult.
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Help a victim who is in shock. Lay the victim on his back so that his head is slightly lower than his body. Lift his legs and hold them.
- When a thunderstorm approaches, protect electrical appliances by unplugging them in advance. Do not use landlines as lightning can travel through the wire. Do not unplug appliances during a thunderstorm, but only do this in advance.
- Do not be in small boats during a thunderstorm. However, if there is no other option to get to the shore, you should not jump into the water - stay in the boat, even if it is a sailing vessel with a mast. There is a misconception that it is safe to be in water during a thunderstorm. In fact, lightning can easily strike the water (or it can conduct an electrical discharge), and while afloat it is not advisable to lose consciousness.
- Protect your hearing by adopting the position described in this article. The sound of thunder is dangerous to your eardrums.
- Lightning travels along the ground within a radius of several meters from where it strikes, so stay away from tall, isolated objects. For the same reason, remember that a person can be injured by lightning even if you did not see it hit him.
- Lightning detection devices and thunder warning services are available at golf courses, parks, etc.
- Lightning is a common summer occurrence across much of the United States. Florida holds the record for the most lightning strikes per square kilometer per year.
- Lightning occurs not only during a thunderstorm, but can also occur during a volcanic eruption. Therefore, make sure that the volcano is dormant. The more ash you see, the greater the chance of lightning.
- Wearing electronic devices with headphones during a thunderstorm increases the likelihood of serious injury upon impact, affecting not only the ears, but also other parts of the body over which the headphone cord passes.
- Wear as much rubber as possible. Rubber is a good insulator, and when struck by lightning, it will reflect it or absorb it. Also, do not touch the metal, as lightning passes over its entire area, and if you touch it, it will transfer to you.
- Stay away from windows.
ADVICE. You should remain inside the vehicle if the interval between the lightning spark discharge and the sound of thunder is up to 15 seconds.
Actions to take while on an airplane
Having a metal body, the aircraft provides protection to passengers based on the principle of a Faraday shield. And even if a lightning strike occurs directly on the plane (on the ground, during the flight), people will be reliably protected. Greater danger comes from sharply increasing wind and turbulence, which are the “companions” of a thunderstorm. Therefore, experienced pilots try to avoid thunderstorms.
What to do if you are at home
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If you have a lightning protection system, you, your loved ones and property are not in danger. An external lightning protection system ensures the safety of the building as a structure during a thunderstorm, from destruction and the occurrence of fires and fires to everything. This system intercepts direct lightning strikes and diverts them to the ground, protecting the building from damage and preventing fires.
Such systems should only be installed by qualified specialists. Lightning protection systems from the MZK-Electro company, made from high-quality materials and meeting the necessary technical conditions and standards in the field of lightning protection, have proven themselves well. With us you will receive a free consultation and cost calculation in different price categories based on your preferences. Moreover, this can be either turnkey installation with the implementation of the entire range of work from design to commissioning, or separate installation or supply of components (we are a dealer of all well-known manufacturers of lightning protection equipment, so our prices are even cheaper than those of manufacturers)
However, external lightning protection will be most effective only when combined with internal lightning protection. In the latter case, surge protection devices (SPDs) are used. Internal lightning protection prevents the failure of electronic and electrical devices susceptible to voltage surges due to the destructive effects caused by lightning.
What can you do during a thunderstorm?
Watch TV
Watching TV is allowed in any case, and if, in addition, your house has internal and external lightning protection systems that provide reliable protection for the building, property and people inside, then sudden problems in the power supply system and on the antenna line will also not cause you trouble.
Work on computer
To safely use a PC during a thunderstorm, it is desirable to have devices included in the internal lightning protection that protect the equipment from surge voltages. Such devices must provide protection for Ethernet, signal and power lines against sudden voltage changes caused by remote and direct electrical lightning strikes.
Conversations on the phone
A telephone conversation during bad weather is not dangerous if the communication line is protected from sudden voltage surges and lightning. Using a mobile phone is also not dangerous.
Swim and shower
A lightning strike provokes the spread of current through communication systems and structures made of metal. That is, if the external metal structures are not grounded, then you can easily get high potential from the outside through internal communications. For example, water pipes are such. As a result, a person exposes himself to the danger of being electrocuted. Therefore, it is better if the house is protected by such elements of the lightning protection system as surge arresters or other SPDs (surge protection devices).
First aid for lightning strikes
The severity of the injury may vary. So in some cases there is muscle contraction, nerve spasms, blood pressure jumps, and the person can breathe heavily. In more severe situations, he is unconscious and shows signs of serious heart rhythm problems (slow breathing, very weak pulse, dilated pupils). In this case, you must immediately call an ambulance, and before it arrives, try to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (cardiac massage and artificial respiration).
Rules of conduct during a thunderstorm
Thunderstorms are considered the most dangerous weather phenomenon in summer
Safonov Alexey
Spring has come. The summer season is just around the corner. Most citizens at this time, according to a long-standing tradition, go on vacation. People try to spend more time in nature, organize forest meetings and picnics, and some simply go to their dachas.
But we should not forget that summer weather is very changeable, and a clear summer day can quickly turn into cloudy and rainy. The most dangerous weather phenomenon in summer is considered to be a thunderstorm. Thunderstorms are electrical discharges in powerful cumulonimbus clouds, accompanied by a flash of light (lightning) and sharp sounds (thunder). Thunderstorms are often accompanied by strong gusty winds, heavy rainfall and even hail. Particularly strong thunderstorms are sometimes accompanied by a significant and sharp increase in wind (squall), as well as rare types of lightning (ball) and tornadoes. All this makes a thunderstorm a destructive natural phenomenon. Lightning strikes often cause fires, destruction of buildings, damage to power lines, and disrupt the movement of electric trains. Strong winds can rip roofs off houses and lift heavy objects into the air. Hailstorms can lead to the death of livestock and people, damage to buildings and structures. Therefore, we remind visitors to our website about the rules of conduct during a thunderstorm, since knowing them can save the lives of yourself and others.
1. If you are outdoors, take shelter (if possible) in a hardtop vehicle or indoors; Do not hide in small buildings (sheds), fabric tents, or among isolated and sparse clusters of trees.
2. If the shelter is far away, bend down (staying alone); it is advisable to hide in some kind of recess; keep your legs together and remove all metal objects from your head and body. Don't lie down on the ground, but try not to be the highest point on the area.
3. If your hair stands on end or you hear a buzzing sound from nearby objects, such as large rocks or fences, move to another location immediately.
4. Do not fly a kite or model airplane on a line.
5. Do not hold long metal objects such as fishing rods, umbrellas or golf clubs.
6. Do not touch metal structures, wire fences or metal wires for drying clothes. Don't go near them.
7. Do not ride a horse, bicycle or open-top car.
8. If you are driving, reduce your speed and stop, but keep away from tall objects such as trees and high-voltage power lines. Stay in your car or hardtop trailer, but do not touch or go near any metal parts.
9. If you are swimming, get out of the water immediately and go to shelter.
10. If you are boating, moor to the shore as soon as possible. If it is unsafe, take cover under a tall structure (bridge or pier). The yacht's masts and guy ropes must be reliably grounded to the water.
11. If you are indoors, you should stay away from windows, electrical appliances, as well as pipes and other metal plumbing.
12. Don't make phone calls. If you need to call emergency services, speak succinctly and as briefly as possible.
13. Before a thunderstorm, turn off external antennas and unplug radios and televisions. Disconnect modems and power supplies. Stay away from electrical appliances.
Many people during a thunderstorm ask themselves the pressing question of how to behave correctly in such weather conditions. Every year the number of victims increases. Knowing certain rules, you can avoid an accident. Let's consider in order how to behave in a thunderstorm, being in different places.
Thunderstorm while at home
- Often a thunderstorm catches people while they are outside their home walls. It is a mistake to assume that a weather event cannot cause harm. It is important to follow a number of certain rules if you find yourself in such a situation.
- It is strongly recommended that you turn off the power to all household appliances that are connected to the network. It would be a good idea to completely cut off the power to your living space (house, apartment).
- It is imperative to close balcony doors, windows, and vents. To avoid being frightened by bright flashes, curtain the curtains. It is also worth paying special attention to fireplaces and chimneys. They should be closed if possible.
- There should be no hint of a draft in the house. This move will prevent ball lightning from hitting you. There is no need to assume that this is a fairly rare occurrence. It is highly recommended to stay away from windows during thunderstorms.
- Do not try to light the stove or fireplace in such weather conditions. Smoke is considered an excellent electrical conductor. Otherwise, the risk of lightning striking the roof of the house increases.
- People indoors are advised to stay away from entrance doors, antennas, walls and wiring. Especially if there are tall trees or other similar objects near the house.
- It is also worth limiting the use of cellular communications and modern gadgets. Do not leave the premises unless necessary during a thunderstorm. In this way, the accident can be reduced to zero.
Thunderstorm while staying near a pond
- Almost everyone knows that in the summer there comes a period of severe thunderstorms. Often people go fishing, have an active rest and simply cool off in the water. In this case, a thunderstorm is considered the most dangerous phenomenon.
- As soon as you hear thunder in the distance or the flickering of lightning, immediately leave the pond, you need to stay as far away from it as possible.
- If you are spending time on a catamaran or boat, you need to get to shore as quickly as possible. At the same time, try to bend down to the water transport as much as possible.
Thunderstorm while in transport
- It is not always possible to predict the weather. Often a thunderstorm occurs suddenly. Fortunately, transport is not the worst shelter. The car is quite capable of protecting you from lightning, thunder and heavy rain.
- If you have your own vehicle, it is recommended to park your car in an area where there are no power lines or trees. You should not continue driving during bad weather conditions.
- If you have insufficient experience as a driver, such a move could contribute to a bad outcome. Gusty winds along with poor visibility and bright flashes often lead to traffic accidents.
- It is strongly recommended to find a suitable location, turn off the engine, turn off the radio and close all windows.
- If you are driving another vehicle, for example a two-wheeler, you need to stop immediately and move away from the vehicle. Otherwise, you will become the target of lightning strikes, since you represent the highest point in the open area. In the city it is not necessary to follow such rules.
- When in the forest, it is recommended to behave quite calmly. Without panic, if possible, leave such a place and find an open clearing.
- If you have electronic devices on you, turn them off immediately. Remove jewelry, if any. Do not try to hide under tall trees such as poplar, pine, oak or spruce.
- For such cases, birch, maple or hazel will do. Such trees, as practice shows, are the least susceptible to lightning strikes. Don't hide near plants that have previously been exposed to thunderstorms.
- The earth in such an area has high electrical conductivity, and therefore poses the highest danger. After choosing a suitable place, you need to squat down, lower your head and clasp your legs with your hands.
Thunderstorm while in the mountains
- It is strongly recommended to stay away from sharp peaks and rocks, mountain ridges. If possible, go as low as possible.
- If you climbed a mountain with professional equipment and all kinds of utensils, immediately put everything in bags and lower it on a rope into any depression.
Thunderstorm while outdoors
- If for some reason you find yourself in an open area at the beginning of a thunderstorm, it is recommended to find any structure. Otherwise, immediately turn off all devices that have power.
- Look around you for potentially dangerous objects such as power lines, trees and bushes. Ideally, you need to find a depression and ravine where the ground is dry; a sand mound works best.
- You should also remove all kinds of jewelry and place them at a distance of several meters. Squat down and lower your head. Try not to get nervous or move. Lying on the ground is prohibited.
- During a natural phenomenon, do not try to hide in the open under single trees, metal structures, wet buildings and mesh fences. All of the above objects attract lightning.
Before a thunderstorm, carefully assess the situation, do not panic. Remember that the risk of being struck by lightning may be greater if your body and clothing are wet. An important factor remains that you need to stay away from large trees, clay soil, ponds, and fires. It is prohibited to be on a hill or in a dense group of people.
Video: rules of behavior during a thunderstorm