To maximize your safety during a thunderstorm, it is essential to understand and apply specific precautionary measures, as well as use modern technological tools such as the LPS Manager application:
1. Stay inside
- For what ?
Solid structures offer protection against lightning by means of lightning rods which protect against direct lightning strikes.
– Physical attitude:
Stay away from windows, doors and exterior walls. Find a central space in the house or building where you are less exposed.
– Using LPS Manager :
Track the storm's path and the proximity of lightning strikes. Use the app to check if your building's lightning protection system has been recently inspected and is in good working order.
2. Avoid water and pipes:
- For what ?
Water and metal pipes can conduct electricity from a nearby lightning strike, which could be dangerous.
– Physical attitude:
Stay dry and away from taps, showers, bathtubs and other water-related appliances.
3. Unplug electrical appliances:
- For what ?
This prevents damage from power surges caused by lightning striking the local power grid.
– Physical attitude:
Make sure to do this before the storm gets too close, to avoid any risk during the disconnection.
4. Stay away from windows, doors and balconies:
- For what ?
These elements can break under the effect of wind or hail and provide a path for the electrical conduction of a nearby lightning strike.
– Physical attitude:
Find a safe place indoors, away from these openings, to take shelter.
5. Avoid conductive objects:
- For what ?
Electrical wires and metal bars can conduct the electricity from a lightning strike, which poses a risk of electrocution.
– Physical attitude:
Keep your feet close together and avoid touching multiple objects at once.
6. Do not take shelter under trees:
- For what ?
Isolated trees attract lightning and can be a direct point of impact, causing injury or worse.
– Physical attitude:
If you are outdoors, squat down, keep your feet close together and minimize contact with the ground. Do not lie down.
7. Monitor weather alerts:
- For what ?
Stay informed about the duration and severity of the storm to better plan your actions.
– Physical attitude:
Have a battery-powered device, such as a radio, that can receive updates if the power is out.
– Using LPS Manager :
The application can also provide real-time alerts on weather conditions and lightning activity in your area, which is crucial for adequate preparation.
8. Safety position in case of no better shelter:
If you are caught outdoors with no better shelter nearby, crouch on the ground, put your feet together, and place your hands over your ears to protect yourself from the sound of thunder. This position minimizes your exposed surface area, reducing the risk of being hit by a ground current if lightning strikes nearby.
These precautionary measures and physical attitudes, along with the use of the LPS Managerapplication, can greatly increase your safety during a thunderstorm.