When Lightning Strikes: Staying Safe During a Lightning Storm

Florida is a beautiful state, known well for its sunny, warm climate, beautiful beaches, and…lightning storms.  Here in Central Florida, we are accustomed to frequent thunder storms, and those usually bring a fair bit of rain, and a lot of lightning.  While the display might be pretty, these storms can also be quite dangerous, and without knowing it, you could be putting yourself at risk.

When the next lighting storm hits us here in Polk County, what should you do?

Stay away from water!  We have plenty of lakes, retention ponds, and other bodies of water here in the greater Winter Haven area.  It can be easy to find yourself caught in a storm while near one of these wet areas, but avoid it if possible.  If you ARE near water, get as far away from it as possible, and try to take cover in a car or other sturdy shelter.

Avoid Materials That Conduct Electricity.  Fences, poles, and other metal items can pull the electricity from a lightning strike and send it into whatever is nearby.  That could be you.  Don’t let it happen.  If you see a storm coming, get away from anything metal, or anything tall (trees, towers, etc.) that could conduct the electricity and turn your situation deadly.

Be Careful, Even Inside.  Just because you’re inside doesn’t mean you’re safe.  When indoors during a storm, avoid phones, computers, and other items that can send electric currents into their users in the case of a strike.  Also avoid baths, showers, and washing dishes since water can conduct electricity.  Save those tasks for after the storm ends.

Don’t Rush It.  The lightning might have seemed to stop, but that doesn’t automatically give you the clear to run outside again.  Lightning can strike from a storm that is up to 10 miles away.  The rule of thumb is to wait 30 minutes from the LAST time thunder was heard.  That usually means you’re good to go again.

Protect yourself even further by making sure your home and health are covered in the event of an accident, whether from a lightning storm or otherwise.  Carroll Marshall Insurance can customize a plan that’s right for you.  Just stop by our Winter Haven office or give us a call!