Summer 2011 - Summer Storms - Staying Safe
Below is an article that was published by the Insurance Bureau of Canada on our quarterly theme of Summer Storms.
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Now that we’re in the midst of summer, we’ve come to expect periods of intense humidity and heat (especially if you’re from southern Ontario). And with this summer heat and humidity comes the possibility of thunder and lightning storms.
Although sitting in your home, watching lightning pierce the night sky is a nice way to spend the evening, thunderstorms are not without their dangers. In fact, lightning kills approximately 10 Canadians each year and injures approximately 100 to 150 others.
Here are some tips to help keep you and your family safe:
If you’re caught outdoors:
• Stay away from tall objects, such as trees, hilltops, telephone poles, etc.
• Seek shelter in low-lying areas, such as valleys, ditches and depressions, but be cautious of flooding. In a forest, seek shelter in a low-lying area under a thick growth of small trees and bushes.
• Stay away from water. Avoid boating and swimming if a storm threatens. If you’re already on the water, get back to shore quickly and safely.
• Stay clear of objects that conduct electricity, such as golf carts, golf clubs, metal fences, motorcycles, lawnmowers and bicycles. If you’re wearing metal cleats, take them off.
• Staying inside your car is usually a safe spot, but don’t park near or under trees or other tall objects that can possibly fall during a storm. Also, stay away from downed power lines as they can electrically charge the ground and objects around you.
Indoor precautions:
• Before thunder and lightning hit, disconnect electrical appliances, including radios, TVs, clocks, computers, etc. Do not touch them during the storm.
• Keep away from doors, windows, fireplaces and anything that will conduct electricity, such as radiators, stoves, sinks and metal pipes.
• Don’t handle electrical equipment or telephones. Use battery-operated appliances only and when possible, listen to a battery/crank radio for storm updates.
• Stay inside and don’t go out unless you have no other choice.
Enjoy the summer weather and always practice these tips when faced with a summer storm.
*tips have been partially adapted from “Lightning Safety” from Environment Canada -
http://www.ec.gc.ca/foudre-lightning/default.asp?lang=En&n=159F8282-1
