Lightning safety: How to protect yourself from summer storms

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The dangers of thunderstorms: important rules of conduct

Thunderstorms are fascinating, but can also be life -threatening, especially when lightning strikes come into play. The effects of a lightning strike on the human body are devastating: within 0.02 seconds, an enormous electrical load of up to 100 million volts and 10,000 amps can affect a person. Therefore, it is advisable to stay in a protected room during a thunderstorm.

advice on self -rescue

Stefan Gandelau, the district fire chief, points out that it is important to follow some basic rules when you are outdoors. "Offer as little attack space as possible!" He recommends. Bring your feet and legs closely together and crouch. This reduces the likelihood of being hit by a flash.

"Avoid being nearing single trees, heights or mountain peaks. Lightning often choose these high points to take a look.

attention to the water

One of the greatest dangers during a thunderstorm is water. "If you are in the water, be it in the swimming pool, lake or river, get out immediately!" Emphasizes the district fire chief. Lights can spread explosively in the water and thus represent a significant danger.

missions in flash accidents

In the event that you become a witness to a lightning stroke, it is crucial to act quickly. Frank Mühlchen, head of the rescue control center of the Rhein-Sieg district, explains: "Immediately provide first aid and call the emergency call 112. A lightning strike can lead to a heart and respiratory arrest. In such cases, immediate measures are of the utmost importance." If you find the person who has been hit, bring them to the stable side position and check your breathing.

"The dispatchers of the rescue control center are ready to actively support first aiders and give instructions for the cardiac massage. This means that the time can be bridged until the ambulance arrives," adds Mühlchen.

prevention measures during a thunderstorm

The safest option during a thunderstorm is to stay in a closed building or a car. Due to their building structure, houses offer protection against dangerous overvoltages, and many public buildings have lightning protection systems. Cars also look like Faraday's cages that shield the electromagnetic fields.

Despite these protective measures, it is advisable to avoid activities such as swimming, showering or calls during a thunderstorm. In addition, you should keep the distance between metal and water -bearing lines and separate electrical devices from the power grid to avoid damage if the lightning strikes.

preparation for thunderstorms with warnings

For prevention and timely warning of various dangers, including thunderstorms, the use of the federal emergency information and news app, Nina, is recommended. This app provides users about relevant warnings, weather data and information for population protection. It is free of charge and enables an individual adjustment of notifications. Information about the app can be found at Rhein-sieg-kreis.de/warnapp-nina.

thunderstorms can be unpredictable, but with the right behaviors, the risk of themselves and others can be significantly minimized.

Source: Rhein-Sieg-Kreis (Hei)

- Nag