A few dark clouds may not seem like much when you’re out for a walk or heading home. But thunderstorms can bring lightning before heavy rain arrives, so it’s important to pay attention when a storm starts to develop.
Knowing a few basic thunderstorm precautions can help you react quickly when the weather changes.
Dos: Safe Practices During a Thunderstorm
Here’s what you need to know about thunderstorm safety. These habits keep you safer the moment a storm rolls in:
- As far as possible, move indoors at the first rumble.
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before stepping out again.
- Stay in the middle of the house, away from windows and doors.
- Unplug TVs, laptops, and routers before the storm arrives to limit surge damage.
- Keep a torch and a charged power bank close by in case the power goes out.
Don’ts: Mistakes to Avoid for Personal Safety
Some common habits can put you at greater risk during a thunderstorm:
- Avoid taking showers, washing dishes, or touching taps, as metal plumbing may carry current.
- Skip corded landline phones and plugged-in devices.
- Avoid leaning on concrete walls or lying on concrete floors, since they may contain metal reinforcement.
- Do not assume light rain means the danger has passed.
- Do not head out the second the rain stops.
Safety Tips for Outdoor Situations
If you’re caught outside during a storm, a few simple thunderstorm precautions can help you stay safe and decide what to do next:
- Seek shelter in a fully enclosed building or a vehicle with a metal roof and the windows up. Open sheds, tents, and bus shelters do not count.
- Move away from open water, hilltops, metal fences, and poles.
Emergency Preparedness for Thunderstorms
Being prepared is an important part of how to stay safe in a thunderstorm. Check the forecast, decide where you would shelter, and pack a small kit. Include a torch, first aid supplies, regular medicines, a power bank, and copies of key documents.
Keep your health insurance details with your other important documents. Having your policy number and hospital contact details readily available can save time if someone needs medical care.
If someone is struck by lightning, call 112, India’s emergency number. You can safely assist the person because a lightning victim does not carry an electric charge. If you are trained in CPR, start it while waiting for medical help.
Conclusion
When the sky turns dark and thunder starts rolling in, head inside rather than waiting to see what happens. Stay away from trees, open spaces, water and electrical appliances until the storm passes.
These thunderstorm precautions can help prevent serious injuries, while health insurance can help cover eligible hospital and treatment costs if an injury does occur, as per the policy’s terms, conditions, and exclusions.
FAQs
1. Why should I avoid standing under trees during a thunderstorm?
Lightning often hits the tallest object around, which can make trees particularly dangerous during a storm. The electrical current can travel through the tree and the ground, putting anyone standing nearby at risk. You may also be hit by a falling branch.
2. Is it safe to use electronic devices during a storm?
Devices plugged into the mains can carry a power surge, so avoid them. Battery-powered phones and laptops that are not charging are generally considered safe indoors. Corded phones are best avoided.
3. What should I do if I’m stuck outside during a thunderstorm?
If you’re stuck outside during a thunderstorm, move away from tall objects and open water, then crouch low on the balls of your feet. Keep your feet together, tuck your head, and cover your ears. This is the position India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) suggests when no shelter is available. Avoid lying flat on the ground.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.