lightning safety awareness booklet (PDF, 1.97 MB) - State of Illinois
lightning safety awareness booklet (PDF, 1.97 MB) - State of Illinois
lightning safety awareness booklet (PDF, 1.97 MB) - State of Illinois
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IndoorsA house or other substantial building <strong>of</strong>fers the best protection from <strong>lightning</strong>. Openshelters, carports, garages and sheds are designed to protect people and property fromrain and sun – NOT <strong>lightning</strong>.There are three main ways <strong>lightning</strong> enters a building:1. A direct strike2. Through wires or pipes that extend outside the building3. Through the groundOnce in a structure, the current from a <strong>lightning</strong> strike can travel through electrical lines,plumbing, phone lines, and radio or TV reception systems. Lightning can also travelthrough any metal wiring or bars in concrete walls or flooring.• AVOID CONTACT WITH CORDED PHONES Phone use is theleading cause <strong>of</strong> indoor <strong>lightning</strong> injuries in the United <strong>State</strong>s. Cordless phonesare safe, as long as <strong>lightning</strong> does not strike while you are removing the phonefrom the charging cradle. Cell phones are the safest method <strong>of</strong> communication.• STAY AWAY FROM WINDOWS AND EXTERIOR DOORS Windowsand doors can provide a path for a direct strike to enter a home.• STAY OFF OF PORCHES AND DECKS Even if a porch or deck iscovered, it does not <strong>of</strong>fer any protection from <strong>lightning</strong> strikes.Direct strikes andpower surges dueto <strong>lightning</strong>causes significantdamage topersonal propertyeach year.• AVOID CONTACT WITH ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT OR CORDSDirect strikes and power surges due to <strong>lightning</strong> cause significant damage topersonal property each year. If you plan to unplug any electronic equipment, doso well before the storm arrives. Do not forget to disconnect televisions andradios from outdoor antennas.• STAY AWAY FROM PLU<strong>MB</strong>ING AND PLU<strong>MB</strong>ING APPLIANCESAvoid contact with pipes during a thunderstorm. Do not take a shower or bath.Avoid appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and electric hot waterheaters, since they utilize both water and electricity.• BE ALERT FOR DIRECT LIGHTNING STRIKES If your home, or aneighbor’s home is directly struck by <strong>lightning</strong>, call the fire departmentimmediately! Have the electrical wiring in your home inspected by a qualifiedelectrical contractor as soon as possible.6 Lightning Safety Awareness
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