How to stay safe during thunderstorms as recommended by a Southern MD Electrician

Fireworks are not the only thing that light up the sky on warm evenings. Hot, humid weather often presents the ideal conditions for the formation of thunderstorms to form.

The National Severe Storms Laboratory estimates that 16 million thunderstorms occur across the globe each year. The NSSL says that, at any given moment, there are 2,000 thunderstorms in progress. In the United States, eight cities in Florida top the Farmer’s Almanac list for the most thunderstorm-prone areas. The regions’ average conditions can be highly favorable for producing thunderstorms.

Although thunderstorms can be exciting to watch from the safety of indoors, these storms can be strong and dangerous. Thunderstorms are often accompanied by damaging winds and large hail. Thunderstorms can move in very quickly and produce flash flooding conditions. The American Red Cross states that every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes.

Despite advance warnings, people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms each year.

Respecting the power of a thunderstorm, just as you do the electricity in your home, can help keep people safe.

Follow the 30/30 lightning safety rule. When lightning flashes, immediately go indoors if you cannot count to 30 before hearing a thunder clap. Remain indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last rumble of thunder.
Upon hearing thunder, get out of boats, pools, and other bodies of water.
Unplug electronic equipment that may be susceptible to damage from power surges caused by lightning hitting power lines.
Be sure to have a flashlight and extra batteries handy in the event of a power outage.
Listen to the local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates.
Get to higher ground if flash flooding is possible.
Avoid contact with plumbing fixtures, as water conducts electricity.
Do not try to drive during severe thunderstorms. Afterward, do not drive through standing puddles. They may be too deep to gauge.
Stay away from windows.
If you are caught outdoors, seek shelter if possible. If shelter is not available, find a low area away from metal areas or tall objects that can attract lightning. Curl into a ball and make yourself as small as possible.

Regarding Electrical Safety:

Install a whole-house surge protector: While unplugging electronics is good, a whole-house surge protector offers a more comprehensive defense against power surges caused by lightning or other grid issues. This is especially relevant for an electrician's website.
Avoid using corded phones: During a thunderstorm, using a corded phone can expose you to electrical shock if lightning strikes the phone lines. Advise using cell phones or cordless phones instead.
Do not touch fallen power lines: This is crucial. Emphasize that even if they don't appear to be live, downed power lines are extremely dangerous and should never be approached. Report them immediately to the power company.
Consider a backup power source: For those who rely on electricity for critical medical equipment or work, consider exploring options like generators or battery backup systems.

General Safety & Preparedness:

Know your home's electrical panel: Advise homeowners to know the location of their main electrical panel and how to safely shut off power to the entire house in an emergency.
Have an emergency kit: Beyond a flashlight and batteries, suggest a more comprehensive emergency kit that includes first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, water, and any necessary medications.
Check on vulnerable neighbors: Encourage people to check on elderly or disabled neighbors who might need assistance during and after a storm.
Secure outdoor objects: Remind people to bring in or secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, and other items that could become projectiles in strong winds.
Do not take a shower or bath: Reiterate the point about plumbing, and specifically mention avoiding showers or baths during a thunderstorm due to the risk of lightning traveling through water pipes.

Call Buckler Electric for all your home or commercial electrical contracting needs.