Lightning kills, stay safe

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Ignacio Castro-Luna
  • 17th Training Wing Safety
GOODFELLOW AFB, Texas --  Rather than telling you my lightning survivor story or the one that I investigated a few years ago, let me assure you that not only does lightning strike often in the Concho Valley, but it can strike with serious consequences. It is real. Here are some safety tips and facts from the National Weather Service and the National Geographic website. 

Lightning kills as many as 2,000 people worldwide every year. Hundreds more people are struck but survive, usually with lingering and debilitating symptoms. 

Here are some things you can do to avoid electrical storms or decrease your chances of getting struck. Safety Tips:: 
· If outside, seek refuge in a car or grounded building when lightning or thunder begins. 
· If inside, avoid taking baths, or showers and washing dishes. 
· Avoid using landline phones, televisions and other appliances that conduct electricity. 
· Stay inside for 30 minutes after you last see lightning or hear thunder. People have been struck by lightning from storms centered as far as 10 miles (16 kilometers) away.
 · If caught outside away from a building or car, stay clear of water bodies and tall objects like trees. Find a low spot or depression and crouch down as low as possible, but don't lie down on the ground. 
Lightning can move in and along the ground surface, and many victims are struck not by bolts but by this current. 
For more information visit http://www.nws.noaa.gov/safety.php.