what are the measures to prevent loss of life due to lightning?
Answers
Lightning kills 51 people per year in the United States and injures hundreds more. Take extra precaution during thunderstorms to avoid getting struck. The steps you'll take outdoors, inside, or while driving are important and distinct. While you cannot fully prevent getting struck by lightning, you can decrease the likelihood.
1) Stay away from open fields or hilltops. Lightning often strikes the tallest object in the area, so avoid open fields or any hilltops. Look for a low-lying area like a valley or ravine, preferably obscured from the rain. Take refuge here until the storm passes. Crouch down with your heels touching and your head between your knees: this will make you a smaller target.
2) Avoid swimming or watersports on rainy days. Check weather forecasts early in the day, and avoid going to a swimming pool, river, lake, or beach on rainy days. If you find yourself in open water during a thunderstorm, return to land immediately. If you are in a boat and cannot return to safety, drop anchor and crouch as low as possible.
3) Don't stand near trees or tall isolated objects. Taller objects are more likely to be struck by lightning. Wherever you are, don't become the highest object anywhere. Avoid standing under trees in a lightning storm, and stay away from tall objects like light posts.