Instructions to Avoid lightning

Be Lightning Safe: Follow These 20 Crucial Instructions from Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defense

In recent years, Bangladesh has witnessed an alarming rise in lightning-related fatalities and injuries, particularly during the pre-monsoon and monsoon months. In light of this, the Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defense Department has issued 20 life-saving emergency instructions to help the public stay safe during thunderstorms. These guidelines are essential for everyone—urban and rural residents, farmers, workers, students, and families alike.

Let us explore these instructions in detail and understand why each one is important.

1. Avoid Contact with Metal Objects

During lightning, metal conducts electricity. Touching metal pipes, stair railings, or even metallic plumbing can make you a direct path for electric current. Stay away from all metallic objects inside and outside your home during storms.

2. Install Lightning Rods

Lightning rods are a simple yet effective tool for protecting buildings. They intercept lightning strikes and safely conduct the energy into the ground. Every building, especially tall or isolated ones, should be equipped with a rod system.

3. Spread Out in Open Fields

When lightning occurs and you're in an open field, gathering together is dangerous. A single strike can affect everyone in close proximity. Moving 50 to 100 feet apart reduces the chance of multiple injuries from a single strike.

4. Stay in Separate Rooms

If your house doesn't have proper lightning protection, avoid clustering in one room. The electrical surge can travel through wiring and plumbing. By staying in different rooms, you reduce the risk of multiple injuries.

5. Avoid Taking Shelter Under Trees

A tall tree is a natural lightning magnet. Standing underneath it increases the risk of being struck. If there's no other option, maintain a distance of at least four meters from the tree trunk to reduce risk.

6. Stay Away from Torn or Downed Wires

Torn or downed electrical wires may still carry live current. Keep a safe distance and report them to authorities. Avoid walking or driving over them under any circumstances.

7. Disconnect Electrical Devices

During lightning storms, power surges can damage electrical appliances or start fires. Unplug devices like TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances to protect both your equipment and your home.

8. Treat Lightning Victims like Electric Shock Victims

Lightning victims do not carry electrical charge and can be handled safely. Immediate CPR and medical attention can save lives. Like electric shock victims, they need urgent care to revive breathing and heartbeat.

9. Be Extra Cautious in April-June

Statistically, lightning strikes peak between April and June in Bangladesh. If thunderclouds gather during these months, seek shelter indoors without delay. Awareness of seasonal risk can make a big difference.

10. Take Shelter under Concrete Canopies

If you're caught outside, the best shelter is under a concrete roof or a well-built structure. Avoid tin sheds or temporary shelters, as they offer little protection and may even attract lightning.

11. Avoid Windows and Electrical Appliances

Lightning can enter homes through electrical lines, plumbing, or open windows. Stay away from windows, balconies, and devices like landline phones and televisions during a thunderstorm to minimize risk.

12. Wear Rubber Shoes if You Must Go Out

Rubber-soled shoes offer limited protection by acting as insulators. While not foolproof, they can help reduce the risk if you must venture out during a storm. Thick rubber soles are preferable.

13. Stay Away from Tall Structures

Lightning seeks the tallest path to the ground. Avoid tall trees, electric poles, antennas, and mobile towers. Keep your distance, especially in open areas.

14. Use Umbrellas with Non-Metal Handles

A regular umbrella with a metallic handle can attract lightning. If you must use one, ensure the handle is wooden or plastic. Avoid raising any pointed object toward the sky during a storm.

15. Avoid Open and Elevated Areas

Avoid open fields, rooftops, and hills during thunderstorms. Elevated areas are more likely to be struck. Seek lower ground and stay low until the storm passes.

16. Stay Away from Water Bodies

Water conducts electricity very well. Rivers, lakes, ponds, and swimming pools become dangerous during lightning storms. Leave the area immediately if dark clouds form overhead.

17. Don’t Let Children Play Outdoors

Children often play in open areas without understanding the danger. During a thunderstorm, strictly prevent outdoor play. Teach children about lightning safety and monitor them during the rainy season.

18. Take the Proper Position in Open Fields

If you’re caught in the open with no shelter, the safest position is to crouch down, keep your feet together, put your head down, and cover your ears with your hands. This reduces the chances of being struck or seriously injured.

19. Stay Inside a Car but Avoid Contact with Metal

Modern cars act as a Faraday cage, directing the electric charge around you. However, avoid touching metal parts inside the car. If possible, drive to a sturdy structure and wait out the storm.

20. Stop Fishing and Take Cover

Boats on water are extremely vulnerable. Stop fishing immediately and avoid handling fishing rods, which may be conductive. If possible, go to a sheltered spot or crouch in the boat with minimal contact.

Share and Educate Others

Lightning is one of the most underestimated natural killers. Many tragedies could be prevented with proper awareness and timely action. Share this information with your family, friends, and community. Schools, workplaces, and local organizations should include lightning safety in their emergency preparedness programs.

Understanding and following these 20 emergency instructions can dramatically reduce the risks posed by lightning. They are not just suggestions—they are essential safety measures for surviving nature's fury.

Remember: During lightning, your first priority should always be safety. No work or activity is worth your life. Take shelter, stay informed, and be vigilant.

Let’s all spread awareness and help protect lives. Be alert. Be prepared. Be safe.