I was perusing the internet news stories this evening and came across a story in which a 12 year old boy was killed by lightning and another severely burned. I read further. Apparently they were playing baseball, when a thunderstorm moved into the area. The umpire at the game called the game, which is obviously the right call. The players left the field with the exception of the two victims. They remained on the field playing catch, which was the fatal mistake.
Summer is generally the time we see thunderstorms around here. Granted, we don’t get too many, but all it takes is one lightning strike to take or ruin someone’s life. In 2008, 28 people died from lightning strikes. So far in 2009, 6 people have died. Lightning stike victims suffer from a multitude of symptoms, some of which can be quite severe. Some symptoms include, memory loss, attention deficits, sleep disorders, numbness, dizziness, stiffness in joints, irritability, fatigue, weakness, muscle spasms, and depression.
Here are some things to keep you safe:
• If you can hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning.
• Wait 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
• Use a cell phone or cordless phone instead of a corded phone.
• Don’t take a shower, bath, or swim during a thunderstorm. Water is a good conductor of electricity.
• If boating, head for shore immediately or stay below deck.
• Avoid being the tallest object. If caught without a shelter, crouch in a ball.
• Do not seek shelter under a tree. Lightning has been known to travel to people standing next to trees.
For more information, check out this website.
Twitter
Facebook