Storms come year-round in Canada. No matter the season, whether in the heat of summer or the depths of winter, it’s crucial to stay safe during a storm. There are several misconceptions regarding electrical safety floating around, one myth being that lightning never strikes the same place twice. Well, the CN Tower begs to differ as it gets struck an average of 75 times per year according to Environment Canada. While this may seem trivial, it’s important to debunk the discrepancies to prevent fatal injuries, burns, and electrocution. With that in mind, here are six ways you can stay safe during a storm:
1. Be Aware
Preparedness is key. While society’s reliance on technology has its drawbacks, it’s a great way to keep informed about weather warnings. Keep an eye out (or ear if radio is your medium of choice) for storm warnings in your area. This can keep you and your family safe, especially if you have young children running around.
If your area is particularly prone to storms, regularly checking the Canadian Lightning Danger Map or Storm Map can keep you informed. These are also handy if you’re planning a road trip. If there are warnings in the areas you’re passing through, it’s best to choose another day to travel or plan an alternative route.
2. Stay Low
Ideally, you’ll have access to a safe spot indoors; however, should you be caught outdoors during a thunderstorm, find low ground to best protect yourself. Avoid water, tall structures, isolated trees, powerlines, poles, and high ground. Lightening likes to strike height; therefore, you never want to be the tallest target in an open area. Try to seek shelter in low valleys and minimize your contact with the ground. Meaning, don’t lie on the ground, rather crouch down with your feet positioned closely together.
Do you have access to a vehicle? As long as it’s not a soft-top convertible or golf cart, the metal frame of the vehicle directs the electric current around the outside of the body. The cars frame acts as a cage, directing the lightening away from you and keeping you safe.
3. Get Indoors
The safest place to hide out from a storm is in an enclosed building. With that said, you want to avoid windows, doors, and skylights if the storm is particularly blusterous. Last thing you want is for glass to blow when you’re nearby. Therefore, the best place to hide out is typically the basement or ground floor of your building.
You may have heard about the 30-30 rule growing up and the concept still holds true. After you see lightning strike, count to 30 seconds. If you hear thunder within 30 seconds of the lightning strike, stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap. This is a good tip to teach your children as well as the rhyme: “when thunder roars, get indoors,” to maximize their safety.
4. Avoid Metal
As a conductor of electricity, metal is not something you want nearby during a thunderstorm. When indoors, steer clear of metal appliances such as ovens, kitchens, and electrical equipment. While battery operated devices are typically safe, ensure they’re not plugged in during a storm. TV’s, radios, and laptops should be unplugged during a storm to avoid electrical surges. If you’re indoors, handheld mobile devices shouldn’t be a hazard, however, landlines should not be used.
5. Avoid Water
Like metal, water also acts as a conductor for electricity if not distilled or deionized. As such, don’t shower, bathe, wash dishes, or do laundry during a storm. You should avoid water as best you can until the storm ceases for optimal electrical safety. Be sure to teach your kids about electrical safety around the home and relay electrical safety tips.
6. Proof Your Home
If your building is connected to the electrical grid (which it likely is), then you can take precautions to protect against power surges. When a storm cuts out the electricity in the grid, there can be a buildup of electrical charge. This can damage your home electrical system, overloading your wiring and weakening the components over time.
To protect against this, your residential electrician can install surge protectors which are designed to safeguard your home from sudden spikes in voltage. Professional electrical contractors, such as our team at BPM Electric, can evaluate your home electric and take the measures needed to optimize your system for general day-to-day and storm electrical safety. Reach out for a quote today!
