Shocking Facts About Lightning

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities. Though the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are only around 1 in 500,000, some factors can put you at greater risk for being struck. And storm damage can cause a flood of emotions, but SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties has you covered. 

Before, during and after a storm, it’s good to know what to do and not do. Always be prepared. Here are a few lightning safety tips:

Be aware 

It’s crucial to always be aware. Check the forecast before participating in outdoor activities. If it calls for thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity, or make sure adequate safe shelter is available. 

Go indoors

Remember the phrase, “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Find a safe, enclosed shelter when you hear thunder. Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up. 

Avoid windows

At all costs, avoid windows, doors, porches, and concrete. Do not lie on concrete floors. Also, avoid leaning on concrete walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring. 

Avoid water

During any kind of storm event, it’s wise to avoid water. Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing. 

Now that you’ve discovered some shocking facts about lightning, be sure to follow the aforementioned tips to help you and your family stay safe. Should lightning, flood damage, or storm damage strike your home or business, contact us because our heroes are Here to Help.® If you are faced with this occurrence, and you’d like for the damage to be “Like it never even happened,” there’s only one company that can do that for you, and that’s SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties. Call us today: 573-339-1948.