Lightning: Myths and Facts
Survival Enthusiast,
Surviving in a thunder storm can be an interesting challenge, more so than many think.
While not that many people are necessarily killed each year in a lightning strike, it does happen and it is a dangerous situation.
Needless to say it is no small ordeal being struck by thousands of volts of electricity, but even more dangerous is the lack of knowledge people have on good lightning survival. Today we will separate a few common facts from fiction.
MYTH 1: Always Seek Low Ground
It has often been said that if you are trapped in a thunderstorm you should immediately seek to bring your body to the lowest point, theoretically so the strike can safely pass over you.
Unfortunately this is not always true.
This is based on the assumption that lightning always strikes the highest point, but that's not always the case!
The lightning strikes where it will, and has even been known to strike flat ground, thus your crawling is no guarantee of safety.
MYTH 2: Cars Are Safe Because Of The Rubber Tires
While it is true that your car is often a sufficient shelter this is not because of the tires.
It is believed that because the rubber is an anti-conductor of sorts that the tires offer you protection from the electric current.
The unlikely opposite is actually true, however.
Your car is safe because most of the current will flow through the car's metal flame, and over all structure of the car, which grounds it.
This is important because it tells you it's a bad idea to lean on doors while nature is taking its course.
MYTH 3: Lightning Never Strikes The Same Place Twice
While most people tend to believe this it is actually flamboyantly false.
Not only can lightning strike the same place twice, but it's likely to do so many times.
In most cases lightning will flow into the nearest conduct so watch out for tall structures, especially if they contain metal.
Keep in mind the Empire State Building was once used as a laboratory of lightning of sorts because it so often struck the building.
Lightning can and will strike several times in the same place if it so chooses.
MYTH 4: Hide under a Tree
This is probably one of the more widely dispelled myths of the modern era.
By now most people have a head knowledge that it is unwise to hide under a tree during a thunderstorm.
It bears repeating because there still exists the temptation in the moment to take shelter under mother nature's generously provided shelter.
It still comes with a tremendous risk.
Just ask yourself, is it worth staying dry to bear that risk?
MYTH 5: No Storm, No Problem
Just because it isn't raining and the clouds aren't heavy and low doesn't mean you are in the clear.
Lightning has been known to strike in unlikely places.
Always be on the lookout in areas known for their frequent lightning strikes (such as southern Florida
during spring and summer).
MYTH 6: Never Touch a Strike Victim
When someone is struck safety is important.
It's also important to get the individual the care they need.
They may require first aid and CPR.
The truth is, the body does not store and conduct electricity.
You are not going to be shocked if you touch the victim to apply first aid.
MYTH 7: If you're inside You're Safe
It is important to take shelter during a storm, but it is no guarantee that you're safe just because you're indoors.
Many people have been struck in the safety of their own homes.
It's important to be in a room that is free of too much metal or other conductors (such as in the shower) and that doesn't have a lot of electronics plugged in.
You should make sure there aren't a lot of windows or other entry points where lightning can tear right through.
Above all, just be safe, and stay informed!
Courtesy ofSurvive@CavemanSurvivor.com
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