Experiencing a downpour?
In the midst of a sudden thunderstorm, it's essential to know how to stay safe. Dr. Bernd Böttiger, the Federal Physician of the German Red Cross (DRK), offers some valuable advice for those caught outdoors.
Firstly, it's crucial to avoid being the highest point in the open. Lightning tends to strike the easiest, often shortest path, so tall trees can be a danger. Seeking shelter under trees or using an umbrella during a thunderstorm is never a good idea. In fact, Dr. Böttiger advises against seeking shelter under an umbrella due to its conductive properties. Umbrellas, walking sticks, and bicycles should be moved away from the area or, ideally, discarded during a thunderstorm.
Lightning will travel through an umbrella into the user's hand, causing significant damage. Similarly, metal conducts electricity particularly well, making bicycles a potential hazard in a thunderstorm. To minimise risk, Dr. Böttiger suggests maintaining a distance of at least one meter from others to prevent current from flowing between people.
If you find yourself caught in a thunderstorm, the advice is to crouch down, preferably in a depression on the ground. Feet should be close together, preferably only the balls of the feet touching the ground. This position helps minimise the surface area exposed to the lightning, reducing the risk of injury.
It's also important to be aware that being outdoors during a thunderstorm can induce panic. However, touching others should be avoided due to the risk of electricity transmission. The DRK Federal Physician advises being prepared for objects - from trees to rooftops - to catch fire or fall due to lightning strikes.
Dr. Bernd Böttiger is the chairman of the German Resuscitation Council (Deutscher Rat für Wiederbelebung) and has indicated this organisation as his employer. His advice is a valuable reminder to stay safe during thunderstorms and to be prepared for unexpected weather changes when engaging in outdoor activities like biking, hiking, or walking.
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