Thunderstorms can cause many different hazards with lightning kills around 50 people per year in the United States. Hazards like flash floods, lightning, hail, and even strong winds or tornadoes are common with strong thunderstorms. Around 150 people each year die because of flash flooding, and more die from other thunderstorm-related hazards. Use the following tips to protect your family from storm damage in Springfield Missouri.
What to Do if You’re Outside During A Storm
Being outside during a thunderstorm is incredibly dangerous. Not only are you at risk of being struck by lightning, but you could also be injured by flying debris, caught in a flash flood, or hurt because of hail. It’s best to go indoors during any thunderstorm. Avoid small sheds, picnic areas, or convertibles and find a sturdy building to shelter in for the duration of the storm.
Thunderstorms can start fast, so there may not be a sturdy building to take shelter in. If this is the case, the next best option is a hardtop car or truck. Keep away from any part of the vehicle that could conduct electricity, like any metal in the vehicle. Stay put, as driving could be dangerous with limited visibility and the potential for a flash flood.
If a vehicle is not available, find shelter underneath small trees that have larger trees around them or in a low-lying area. Stay away from lone trees, as they may be more likely to be struck by lightning. If you are in an open area, avoid being near trees, fences or poles that could be struck by lightning. It’s best to crouch down during the storm to be a smaller target for lightening. Never lay flat. Instead, sit on your heels with your head between your knees. Cover your ears and keep the contact with the ground to a minimum.
If you are near water, get out of any boat or canoe and move away from the water as far as possible. Stand apart from others in the group as lightning can pass from one person to another and avoid any metal objects that could conduct electricity.
What to Do if You’re Inside During A Storm
Inside is the safest place to be during a thunderstorm, but it’s still important to take precautions. Make sure all pets are brought inside before the storm begins. Keep to the inner rooms of the building, away from windows and doors. Never go out onto the porch, even if it’s covered. Avoid using any electrical equipment or appliances and unplug them in case there is a power surge. It’s also best to avoid water, so don’t take a shower or bath, wash your hands, or start doing the dishes or laundry during a thunderstorm. Stay away from concrete as well, since it has metal bars running through it.
During thunderstorms, the two biggest risks are from flooding and lightning. Use these tips to make sure your family stays safe from lightning and avoids being at risk of a flood. If you do experience any water damage in Springfield Missouri because of a thunderstorm, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration to repair your storm damage and do the job right.