Over 2,000 people in India die every year after being struck by lightning. The National Crime Records Bureau classifies lightning strikes as a cause of accidental deaths.
Here are some ways to prevent yourself from being a casualty of this uncontrolled nature%u2019s fury:
1: Steer clear of open areas
Lightning targets the tallest objects in an area hence it is advised to avoid hilltops or open areas. The safest option would be to look for low-lying areas which would keep you shielded from the rain as well. Furthermore, crouching down with your head between the knees reduces your chances of being a target.
Also, minimizing the contact with the ground is also advised as lightning can be fatal up to one hundred feet away from the initial strike.
2: Avoid being near a water body
If you are planning a trip to the beach it is always advised to check the weather forecast first and to avoid going to a swimming pool, river, lake, or beach on rainy days. Since water is a good conductor of electricity, if lightning strikes water it will result in the generation of electricity. Moreover, it is best advised to not return to the body of water until thirty minutes after the last lightning strike.
Watch: Lightning strikes 4 men in Gurugram’s sector 82
3: Do not take shelter under a tree
Even though standing under a tree will keep you dry, it still can increase your chances of getting struck by lightning. Since trees are tall objects, they can easily be a target. If you are in a forest, search for shorter trees and take refuge there.
4: Turn off the wired electronics
If you are in an indoor setup then using electronic devices that are plugged into the wall is dangerous during a lightning storm. Avoid using TVs, washing machines, and corded phones during thunderstorms. The electronic devices should be unplugged in case lightning strikes the house and the surge short circuits them.
