Precautions to Help Prevent Lightning-Related Injuries
Most people across Rhode Island have seen the flashes and heard the roars from the recent thunderstorms. While the natural phenomenon can be exciting to observe, Hunter Insurance would like to remind families about the dangers of lightning and how you can protect yourself during a storm.
Lightning has the potential to cause serious harm, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While the odds of being struck by lightning are less than 1 in a million in any given year, lightning continues to be one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities. Another statistic you may have heard about is that men are more likely to be struck by lightning. But the reason for the disparity is more complex than it seems at first glance, an analysis from the National Weather Service shows.
The reality for most people is that lightning strikes indiscriminately, striking individuals of both genders, especially if individuals work outside or engage in outdoor recreational activities. Safety experts typically encourage anyone who sees lightning to retreat indoors — a strategy that is not completely without risk.
When seeking sanctuary from a thunderstorm, individuals are encouraged to avoid places with concrete floors or walls. If lightning strikes nearby, it can travel through metal wires and bars, underneath the concrete, and cause you serious harm. However, that is not the only way lightning can reach you. Lightning can also travel through water in your plumbing system and various electrical equipment, such as a corded telephone.
Homeowners and their families can help prevent lightning-related injuries by keeping these safety precautions in mind. With one-third of lightning related injuries happening indoors, it is important to remember the various ways lightning can travel.
If you find yourself outdoors when a thunderstorm rolls around and don’t have time to seek an enclosed shelter, remember to crouch low while touching the ground as little as possible.
As we transition into another season, Rhode Island families are likely to see more storms in the coming months. Protect what you’ve worked hard to acquire by speaking with a Hunter Insurance agent today at 401-769-9500.