Lightning Safety: Stay Alert, Even a Small Mistake Can Be Life-Threatening

People are being urged to remain vigilant against the dangers of lightning strikes and electrical accidents during the rainy season. Even a moment of carelessness can lead to severe burns, cardiac arrest and, in some cases, death. Taking proper precautions and knowing how to provide first aid in emergencies can play a crucial role in saving lives.

Important Safety Precautions

Move to a safe building or a fully enclosed vehicle with its windows and doors closed as soon as thunder is heard. Waiting until rainfall begins can be dangerous. Buildings with strong walls and roofs provide the safest shelter.

Avoid seeking shelter under isolated trees, in open areas, on hilltops, beaches, swimming pools, near electric poles or inside temporary shelters. Standing under a tree increases the risk of lightning current travelling through the body if the tree is struck.

Water Can Be Dangerous

If caught outdoors, move away from elevated areas. Avoid lying flat on the ground. Even inside a building, certain precautions are necessary during thunderstorms. Lightning can travel through electrical wiring and plumbing systems. Therefore, avoid bathing, washing dishes or coming into contact with water pipes.

Stay away from electrical appliances connected to power outlets, landline telephones, windows and balconies. Mobile phones can be used as long as they are not connected to a charger.

Motorcycles and open vehicles are not safe shelters. Even buildings equipped with lightning conductors cannot guarantee complete protection. Wait at least 30 minutes after hearing the last thunder before going outdoors.

Provide Immediate First Aid to Lightning Victims

A person struck by lightning does not retain an electrical charge in their body. Therefore, once the surrounding area is confirmed to be safe, rescuers can touch the victim and provide first aid.

If the victim is unconscious and not breathing normally, CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) should be started immediately. Chest compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute, pressing the centre of the chest. Even if the victim regains consciousness, they should be taken to a hospital immediately for medical evaluation.

Never Touch a Person Suffering from Electric Shock Directly

During the rainy season, fallen power lines, damaged electrical wires and waterlogged areas can pose serious risks of electric shock.

Never touch a person who has suffered an electric shock until the electricity supply has been disconnected. Doing so could put the rescuer’s life at risk as well.

Immediately switch off the main power switch or circuit breaker to cut off the electricity supply. If a fallen power line or an electrical hazard involving utility lines is noticed, inform KSEB or the Fire and Rescue Services.

Do not apply toothpaste, oil, butter or other substances to burnt areas. Instead, cover the affected area with a clean cloth.

Ensure Electrical Safety at Home

Electrical wiring in homes should be inspected at regular intervals. Proper earthing and the installation of RCCBs (Residual Current Circuit Breakers) should also be ensured.

Never operate electrical appliances with wet hands or while barefoot. Avoid entering waterlogged areas near electric lines.

People are urged to follow basic safety measures, including moving indoors immediately upon hearing thunder, avoiding shelter under trees and never touching an electric shock victim before disconnecting the power supply. These precautions can help prevent serious injuries and save lives.