Lightning Preparedness

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

"When thunder roars, go indoors"

Don't let the calm before the storm fool you

While Missouri hasn't had as much severe summer weather as usual, it is important to brush up on storm safety. Severe weather safety is especially important during the warmer months. Did you know that most lightning strikes occur in the summer months, especially July, during the afternoon and evening? Your chances might be relatively low for being struck by lightening, but Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards.

Lightning Safety Tips:

1. If you hear thunder, remember the phrase "when thunder roars go indoors". Lightning always accompanies thunder. 
2. If caught outside avoid the following: Open areas, high ground, standing or leaning on concrete floors/walls, and any metal objects. All of these are areas most likely to be struck by lightning. 
3. Avoid water; do not bathe or swim. Lightning is very likely to strike open bodies of water and travel through the metal plumbing in your house.
4. Try not to use stoves, dryers, washer, or any other electronics plugged into the wall during a storm with lightning. This is because lightning can travel through electrical systems.
5. Consider buying surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system to protect your home, appliances, and electronic devices.

Please remember that lightning can travel 5-10 miles away from the thunderstorm and strike the ground without storm clouds looming overhead. The storm doesn’t have to be overhead in order for you to be struck so always listen for thunder in the distance when there's moderate risk for severe weather.

If lightning strikes your home, you can trust SERVPRO of Western O'Fallon/Wentzville with your storm restoration needs. Call 636-856-9700 to make your home look "Like it never even happened".