Updated Lightning Safety Recommendations
On Average, lightning continues to cause more deaths and injuries in the United States compared to other storm related phenomena, except floods. Many deaths and injuries involved people who acted inappropriately before, during, and after thunderstorm activity. In order to educate the public and to standardize recommended safety actions during lightning periods, a group of experts have collectively identified recommended lightning safety recommendations.
The identified lightning safety recommendations include: rules for identifying the lightning threat, when to initiate suspension of outdoor activities, identifying lightning-safe locations, safety guidelines for small and large groups, the 30/30 rule, important components of an action plan, first-aid recommendations and duration for lightning victims, and implementing a correct chain of command for the decision making process. The individual is ultimately responsibile for his/her safety, however, adults must take responsibility for children, elderly, and or physically or mentally impaired. It is believed by following the updated lightning safety recommendations, the number of deaths and injuries will be reduced