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Electrical Storm Safety Program at Lake Neepaulin
Recently,
Tom Tate of Sussex Rural Electric Cooperative discussed safety during
electrical storms at a public service information session held at Lake
Neepaulin Beach. Mr. Tate began his presentation with an overview of how
electricity works and how electrical charges trigger lightning bolts.
Lightning kills about 100 people a year in the United States, more than
tornadoes or hurricanes. Although only 10% of those struck by lightning
die, the thousands of survivors often wind up with serious life-long disabilities.
Electrical storms are most common during the summer months. If you see lightning,
apply the 30-30 rule. If you cannot count to 30 between the time you see lightning
and hear thunder, go immediately to a safe place (house, school, building) and
remain there for 30 minutes after the storm passes. Avoid open sports fields,
golf courses, isolated trees, open pavilions.
If
you're unable to reach the safety of a building or an automobile, move
to lower ground and assume a lightning crouch (See photo at left - catcher's
squat with only feet touching the ground; head down and hands covering ears).
Do not lie on the ground and make sure you are several body lengths from
anyone with you.
Mr. Tate distributed an informative handout about lightning which contains important
safety measures to follow. He concluded his presentation with an electrical storm
safety quiz.. This program was organized and sponsored by Friends of Lake Neepaulin.
Story and photos submitted by Tom Jable, FOLN