Lightning Safety Message from City of Houston EMS Physician Director/Public Health Authority Dr. David E. Persse
May 14, 2007
Trees, Small Picnic or Rain Shelters Are Unsafe During Lightning Storms*
Strong electrical storms blew through Houston Sunday injuring four individuals who were playing soccer in Bear Creek Park. HFD EMS encourages citizens to observe these safety tips during Houston's frequent electrical storms.
When you first see lightning or hear thunder, go to a building or a vehicle immediately. Contrary to what one might assume, unsafe places include near or under trees, and under canopies, small picnic or rain shelters. Find shelter in a substantial building or in a fully enclosed metal vehicle, such as a car, truck, or a van with the windows completely shut.
If outdoors during an electrical storm (and unable to quickly go to a building or a vehicle) , avoid water, high ground, and open spaces. Avoid all metal objects including umbrellas, electric wires, fences, machinery, motors, and power tools.
Lightning often precedes rain, so don't wait for the rain to begin before suspending activities. If lightning is striking nearby when you are outside and you don't have time tot seek safe shelter, crouch down, put your feet together, and place your hands over your ears to minimize hearing damage from thunder. Avoid proximity (minimum of 15 ft.) to other people.
If indoors a void water. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not use the telephone. Take off head sets. Turn off, unplug, and stay away from appliances, computers, power tools, and TV sets. Lightning may strike exterior electric and phone lines, inducing shocks to inside equipment.
Call 911 if someone is injured. Injured persons do not carry an electrical charge and can be handled safely. Apply First Aid procedures to a lightning victim.
Strong electrical storms blew through Houston Sunday injuring four individuals who were playing soccer in Bear Creek Park. HFD EMS encourages citizens to observe these safety tips during Houston's frequent electrical storms.