One of the most feared nature phenomena is lightning strikes, for a good reason.
Across the United States alone, this electrical wonder of nature kills more than 20 people each year, leaving surviving victims with lifelong neurological damage.
Property damage caused by lightning strikes can amount to $451 million in just one year. So, it’s normal to fear this phenomenon.
It’s also wise that you should try to be informed as much as possible so that you can avoid being a victim. One of the ways of being informed is through knowing what’s true and what’s not. Here are a few myths you should know about.
Myth 1: lightning doesn’t strike the same place twice
The fact is, lightning can strike the same place over and over again. Especially if your building is isolated and tall or it’s near a water body.
Myth 2: lightning cannot strike if it’s not raining
Whenever you hear thunder, high chances are, lightning is close, even if the sky is clear. So don’t wait until a thunderstorm occurs for you to take shelter.
If you’re planning an outdoor picnic, check the forecast for the day before you go.
Myth 3: sheltering under a tree during a thunderstorm is safe
Fact: the second most dangerous place to be in is under a tree during a thunderstorm. Being outside during a thunderstorm is very dangerous.
The only place that guarantees safety is being in an enclosed building with all the wiring done correctly. Tents, shelters, or even a covered porch are not a guarantee of protection from lightning strikes.
Myth 4: lightning victims carry electrical charges which can electrocute you
Fact: the human body in itself is not capable of carrying or storing electricity. So, if you have a lightning strike victim, it’s not unsafe to carry out first aid on them, or better still, call 911.
Myth 5: lightning rods attract lightning
Fact: the function of lightning rods is to direct lightning safely into the ground. But that’s not all. To combat the effect of lightning, full lightning protection system components have to come into play.
That is:
- The lightning rods; help direct the lightning
- The air terminals; intercept the strikes safely
- The main conductors; direct lightning deep into the earth
- Grounding connections; provides contact with the ground in order to dissipate the strike safely
- Surge protector prevent electrical surges and fires that may erupt from the lightning strike
- And the bonds protect against side flashes
It is only through these components that you can be protected.
Need Lightning protection system components installed in your building?
Contact RS Lightning Protection. We have been installing these systems for buildings in Cincinnati, OH and the surrounding areas for years.
Don’t wait until a strike occurs; choose to be safe today.