During a thunderstorm, you should seek shelter inside sturdy structures and stay away from windows and glass doors; being inside is the safest place to be.

The National Weather Service states thunderstorms are most likely to happen in the spring and summer months, especially in the afternoon and evening time.  Thunderstorms may be cool to watch but when there’s thunder, there is lightning! Chances of being struck by lightning are a million to one, but if you are hit, it can cause serious injury.

We bust 5 common myths about lightning during a thunderstorm!

  • 1

    Myth #1

    Myth: If you touch someone who has been struck by lightning, you will be electrocuted 

    Fact: The human body doesn’t store electricity so it is perfectly safe to touch someone who has been struck by lightning. With that being said, you should give the stricken person first aid as soon as you can!

  • 2

    Myth #2

    Myth: You are safe from lightning if you aren’t directly under clouds

    Fact: Lightning can strike within 3 or more miles away from the center of the storm so it’s best to keep an eye on the storm and seek shelter immediately. 

  • 3

    Myth #3

    Myth: The rubber tires on your car protect you from lightning if you are outside of the car and leaning on it.

    Fact: The rubber tires of your car do not protect you from lightning but the metal of the car can provide some protection from lightning when inside. Still, it is best to seek shelter in an enclosed building if you are able to.

  • 4

    Myth #4

    Myth: Structures with metal or metal on the body, like jewelry or cellphones, can attract lightning.

    Fact: Height, pointy shape, and isolation are the factors that decide where lightning strikes; metal has no contribution. Although it does not attract lightning, metal does conduct electricity so it is best to stay away from objects made of metal, like fences and railings.

  • 5

    Myth #5

    Myth: Lightning can’t strike you if you are indoors.

    Lightning can’t strike you if you are indoors.

    Fact: well, the safest place to be is indoors, if lightning strikes your home, it can travel through your water pipes. That’s why you should not take a shower or do dishes during a thunderstorm.

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