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 indoors
– Why?
Solid structures provide protection from lightning through a lightning rod system that protects against direct lightning strikes.
– Physical position:
Stay away from windows, doors and external walls. Find a central space in the house or building where you are less exposed.
– Using LPS Manager:
Follow the storm path and the proximity of lightning strikes. Check with the application if your building’s lightning protection system has been recently inspected and is in good condition.
2. Avoid water and pipes:
– Why?
Water and metal pipes can conduct electricity from a nearby lightning strike, which could be dangerous.
– Physical position:
Stay dry and away from taps, showers, bathtubs and other water-related devices.
3. Unplug electrical devices:
– Why?
This prevents damage from power surges caused by lightning striking the local electrical grid.
– Physical position:
Make sure to do this before the storm gets too close, to avoid any risk during disconnection.
4. Stay away from windows, doors and balconies:
– Why?
These elements can break under the effects of wind or hail and provide a path for electrical conduction from a nearby lightning strike.
– Physical position:
Find a safe place indoors, away from these openings, to take shelter.
5. Avoid conductive objects:
– Why?
Electrical wires and metal bars can conduct electricity from a lightning strike, posing an electrocution risk.
– Physical position:
Keep your feet close together and avoid touching multiple objects at once.
6. Do not shelter under trees:
– Why?
Isolated trees attract lightning and can be a direct point of impact, causing injury or worse.
– Physical position:
If you are outdoors, crouch down, keep your feet close together and minimize contact with the ground. Do not lie down.
7. Monitor weather alerts:
– Why?
Stay informed about the duration and severity of the storm to better plan your actions.
– Physical position:
Have a battery-powered device, such as a radio, that can receive updates if power is cut.
– Using LPS Manager:
The application can also provide real-time alerts on weather conditions and lightning activity in your area, which is crucial for proper preparation.
8. Safe position if no better shelter:
– If you are caught outside with no better shelter nearby, crouch on the ground, put your feet together, place your hands over your ears to protect against thunder noise. This position minimizes your surface exposure to the ground, reducing the risk of being struck by ground current if lightning strikes nearby.
These precautionary measures and physical attitudes, as well as the use of the LPS Manager application, can greatly increase your safety during a thunderstorm.
