Humana HealthBeat Transcript Archive

July 17

Shocking News About Lightning

Each year more than 100 people are killed by lightning, and even more are injured.

And while most people who get struck by lightning don’t die, someone struck by lightning can suffer burns, memory loss, and other medical problems. That’s why it’s important to be prepared, and make sure you teach your children, as well.

If you’re caught in an open area, make yourself as small as possible. Lightning usually strikes taller objects, and it’s more likely to hit the ground, rather than hit you first. If you can, find a low spot, and crouch down on the balls of your feet, with your feet touching each other. Place your hands on your knees and keep your head low.

Drop any metal objects—including fishing rods, golf clubs, tennis rackets, and umbrellas. And if you’re in the water—get out.

The best place to be is inside, staying away from windows, open doors, and fireplaces—chimneys are a target for lightning. But if you can’t make it inside, get into a car, and roll up the windows and close the doors.

Don’t use plumbing or the telephone during a severe thunderstorm—they can conduct electricity.

Finally, don’t wait to see lightning, before you take cover. If you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be struck by lightning. Postpone any outdoor plans, and get to a safe place.

What should you do if someone is struck by lightning—is it ok to touch them?

Someone struck by lightning does not carry an electrical charge, so they can be handled safely, as long as they have not been electrocuted by a power line. If possible, call 911. If you’re trained, and if there’s no breathing, start mouth-to mouth. If there’s no pulse, then CPR can be started. The person may have burns that need to be treated, both where the lightning struck and where it left the body. This is a good reminder how important first aid and CPR training can be.

RESOURCES:

American Red Cross
www.redcross.org

July 17
Shocking News About Lightning
	Each year more than 100 people are killed by lightning, and even more are injured. And while most people who get struck by lightning don’t die, someone struck by lightning can suffer burns, memory loss, and other medical problems. That’s why it’s important to be prepared, and make sure you teach your children, as well. If you’re caught in an open area, make yourself as small as possible. Lightning usually strikes taller objects, and it’s more likely to hit the ground, rather than hit you first. If you can, find a low spot, and crouch down on the balls of your feet, with your feet touching each other. Place your hands on your knees and keep your head low. Drop any metal objects—including fishing rods, golf clubs, tennis rackets, and umbrellas. And if you’re in the water—get out. The best place to be is inside, staying away from windows, open doors, and fireplaces—chimneys are a target for lightning. But if you can’t make it inside, get into a car, and roll up the windows and close the doors. Don’t use plumbing or the telephone during a severe thunderstorm—they can conduct electricity. Finally, don’t wait to see lightning, before you take cover. If you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be struck by lightning. Postpone any outdoor plans, and get to a safe place.

	What should you do if someone is struck by lightning—is it ok to touch them? Someone struck by lightning does not carry an electrical charge, so they can be handled safely, as long as they have not been electrocuted by a power line. If possible, call 911. If you’re trained, and if there’s no breathing, start mouth-to mouth. If there’s no pulse, then CPR can be started. The person may have burns that need to be treated, both where the lightning struck and where it left the body. This is a good reminder how important first aid and CPR training can be.
	RESOURCES: American Red Cross www.redcross.org