Lightning Safety

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Protect you and yourself against lightning strikes.

Lightning is a major cause of storm related deaths in the United States. Even though the chance of getting struck is small, there are factors that can increase your risk of being struck. Here are a few tips to keep you safe.

• Avoid Water: Don’t shower, bathe, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through the buildings plumbing.
• Avoid Electronic Equipment: Don’t use your laptop, computer, game system, washer, dryer, stoves or any other appliances connected to an electrical outlet. Lightning can travel through electrical systems, radios, TVs and any metal wires in concrete walls or flooring. To protect appliances, equip your home with surge protectors.
• Avoid Corded Phones: During a thunderstorm, corded phones are not safe to use. Use a cell phone instead.
• Avoid Windows, Doors, Porches, And Concrete: During a thunderstorm, don’t lie on concrete floors. Avoid leaning on concrete walls as well. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

If you think your home has been struck by lightning call 911 immediately and evacuate if you see fire or smoke. Ask your local fire department to check for hot spots in your walls.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Columbus if you experience fire damage caused by a lightning strike.