what are the effects of a thunderstorm ? list a few safety measures that can reduce the loss of life and property during a thunderstorm .
Answers
Avoid using corded phones and electronics such as computers or power tools. ...
Don't use your cell phone during a thunderstorm.
Don't wash your hands, shower, wash dishes or do laundry. ...
High winds and hail can shatter glass, so stay away from windows, skylights and doors.
Answer:
A person’s chance of being struck by lightning are estimated to be 1 in 600,000 by FEMA, but can be reduced by following some proper safety precautions. If you are isolated and your hair stands on end (which indicates that lightning is about to strike), then crouch low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands on your knees and your head between your knees to minimize your body’s surface area and minimize your contact with the ground. Lightning current often enters a victim through the ground rather than by a direct, overhead strike. Keep safety in mind when a thunderstorm begins to stir – know how to prepare before, during and after a thunderstorm.
It is important to establish a section of the emergency action plan that prepares workers for the appropriate action to take during a thunderstorm. All workers should be trained on these procedures so they know how to properly respond to an approaching thunderstorm. Consider these safety measures to be prepared for thunderstorms:
Monitor the daily weather forecast to be aware of thunder- storm watches and warnings.
Know the signs that a thunder- storm is approaching; listen for thunder in the distance and look for dark clouds, rain, high winds and lightning.
Follow all company procedures regarding working outdoors during thunderstorms.
Remove any dead or rotting tree branches that could fall and cause injury or damage.
Postpone any outdoor work, if possible, when a thunderstorm is nearby.
Secure outdoor objects that could blow away.
Even when inside a safe shelter, be cautious during thunderstorms. Keep informed on the weather forecast, avoid using electrical equipment and corded telephones if possible and unplug any electronic equipment. Keep away from plumbing and bathroom fixtures as they can conduct electricity. While driving, if it begins to hail or rain heavily during a thunderstorm, safely pull over to the side of the road, turn on the emergency flashers and park the vehicle until the storm calms down.
The best way to protect yourself from thunderstorms is to avoid the threat. If you are caught outside during a thunderstorm, take shelter in a substantial, permanent, enclosed structure that contains plumbing or wiring (i.e., such as a home, office building, school, church, or shopping center). If such a place is unavailable, then select an enclosed metal vehicle for a suitable shelter. Do not seek shelter in open areas, on high grounds, under tall isolated objects (trees, poles), under picnic shelters, in carports, tents or near materials that can conduct electricity (metal objects, utility lines and water). Make sure the place you choose for shelter is not prone to flooding during heavy rains, and go to a low-lying, open place, away from trees, poles and metal objects that is not susceptible to flooding when no other safe cover is available.