The Do’s and Don’ts of Lightning Safety

Damage caused by lightning is covered by most standard homeowners policies. Some policies will even provide coverage for power surges that are a direct result of lightning hitting your home. If lightning were to strike your car, there is also coverage for lightning damage on your auto policy too. With the value of consumer electronics in homes increasing exponentially each year it’s more important than ever to take lightning safety seriously.

When the Thunder Rolls…GO INSIDE! Take shelter in your home or other large building. Hard topped-vehicles are generally safe shelters, as well. There is meaning behind that old saying “where there’s thunder, there’s lightning.”

Avoid any area where you are the tallest object. If you find yourself in an open field without a nearby shelter you will need to take added precaution. If your hair begins to stand on end, which is a sign that lightning will strike soon, crouch down and tuck your body into a ball. Place your hands on your knees and stay up on the balls of your feet. The idea behind this is to make as little contact with the ground as possible; therefore you should never lie flat or place your hands directly on the ground.

Some locations are more hazardous than others. Avoid open water, fishing, golf carts, farm equipment, motorcycles or bikes. If you’re unable to get to land and get indoors, take shelter in tunnels, a ditch or cave if possible. Remember, you should never take shelter under a tree!

When lightning strikes it can be beautiful and awe inspiring, but it can also be dangerous. By keeping a safe distance and understanding the danger that could come with an electrical storm you’ll keep you and your family safe.