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Expert Lightning Protection Tips, Measures And Resources

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By Matthew Young


More people are struck and killed by lightning in US than those who dies in tornadoes every year. With a figure of around 2,000 deaths, lightning protection becomes a priority for all. The measures taken should relate to buildings as well as personal precaution whenever you experience thunder during a storm.

Ascertain that the building you have rented has adequate protection measures. If you are a developer, take appropriate measures to protect the building. Construction authorities provide standards that must be met during construction. They involve installation of arrestor plates that will earth or ground the current. These are the basic measures of staying safe and keeping everyone in the house safe.

Watch the weather if you live in a place that is prone to thunder. Taking precaution is always preferred as opposed to waiting until the minute of strike. If weather reports indicate that there will be thunder, you can avoid too much traveling or take cover in a safe house. Do not wait to be caught up in the rains and risk being struck. The results might be catastrophic.

It is impossible to avoid rains entirely. If you live or work at a place that is prone to thunder, it will be impossible to relocate. In case you are in the middle of a storm, keep away from water. Current can travel even on water that is not flowing. Get down from high grounds because you increase the chances of being struck. Open spaces will also increase your chances of being struck. At an open space, you become the best current conductor and therefore the choice of lightning.

Take cover in a van, lorry or car that is totally enclosed. The windows must be closed to keep away the current. While taking cover, do not touch the body of the vehicle because it can conduct the current. The storm will find you at a place where you cannot take cover. The best measure is to crouch and keep your feet together. Since clapping thunder will affect your ears, close them with your hands or an ear band.

Danger will still strike if you are indoors. It is impossible to predict the nature of strike. The best cover is to avoid water and also keep away from windows and doors. Take off your headsets and do not use the telephone. Any wiring can be hijacked by the current and get to you. Unplug and stay away from electronics and gadgets.

Suspend activities outdoors and on water when the storm begins. Remain within the safe area because the effects of a strike can be felt up 16 km away as current travels on water. Safety is best guaranteed when you keep of water for 30 minutes after the storm has passed.

Taking active protection measures is important but it only adds on the measures taken to protect the infrastructure. Work with a professional technician to monitor and test the effectiveness of plates and poles installed on a building. All people within the premises must be sensitized on the best action to take in case lightning strikes.




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