Lightning Safety Tips

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO® of Panthersville at (678) 515-8602 if you encounter a natural disaster from a lightning storm.

According to the National Weather Service, there are about 25 million lightning strikes in the United States each year. Comply with the following lightning safety tips when a storm occurs:

• Immediately seek shelter in a substantial building and avoid the outdoors when thunderstorms are in the area. There is no place that is safe outside during a storm. Remain in the shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound of thunder.
• If you are caught outside and cannot find shelter, then go to a low-lying open place away from trees, poles, and metal objects. Ensure that the place you choose is not subject to flooding.
• Never touch any wires that fall or low-hanging wires, because they can kill. Telephone or cable TV wires that touch a power line can also be deadly.
• Never try to make your own electrical repairs to power equipment. Let trained professionals do the work.
• Never pull tree limbs off power lines yourself.
• Never go into areas with debris or trees that fall. Dangerous power lines may be buried in wreckages.
• Never go near chain-linked fences. Dangerous lines could be touching the metal.
• Never step in puddles, because they may be electrified.
• Never connect portable generators to your household electrical wiring. Connect only essential appliances, such as freezers and refrigerators directly to a generator.
• Never walk into areas where professional Crews are working. Obey road signs and proceed cautiously if you are driving near work Crews.