Health Hazard Lightning Strike Observe the rules of conduct during thunderstorms

Freiburg University Hospital informs about correct behavior during thunderstorms
In the course of the violent thunderstorms in recent days, several people were struck by lightning, according to the University of Freiburg. A life-threatening health risk that is often underestimated. In the case of an emerging thunderstorm, a few points should urgently be taken into account in order to protect against the health hazard, according to the University Hospital.

Thunderstorms are very common in summer and people are often surprised by their sudden collapse. Anyone who is outside at this time, for example, swimming or camping, should pay attention to a few points, the reference of the University Hospital Freiburg. Because the risk of being struck by lightning is not to be underestimated and the consequences often take on life-threatening proportions.

In order not to be struck by lightning during thunderstorms, certain rules of conduct must be observed. (Image: devmarya / fotolia.com)

Put down metallic objects
In the event of a thunderstorm, it is "advisable to stop bathing immediately and avoid contact with water, whether pool, lake or river." In addition, umbrellas and tents protect against the rain, but they should be metal-free, So without metal-containing poles or pegs, warns the university hospital. Otherwise, the lightning could strike directly into the screen or the tent. In addition, the Freiburg University Hospital recommends "also better store metallic objects worn on the body, such as watches, belts and jewelry". The phone should stay in the bag and not be taken out.

Keep distance from trees and lightning rods
According to the University Hospital, a lightning conductor of at least ten meters should be available on a campground. In addition, this must be "in any case higher than any other trees, poles or towers in his environment, because only then are the lightning really interested for him." For campground visitors, however, apply at the same time, "that of all objects such as lightning rods, trees or Electricity pylons must be maintained at a safety distance of 100 meters. "

According to the Freiburg University Hospital, the old popular saying that one should look for thunderbolts in beech and give way to oaks is "scientifically untenable" and the danger of a falling tree is greater, "the less undergrowth he has, the more solitary his position ever higher its trunk and the stronger its crown is. "(fp)