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11 Lightning safety
South Africa is one of the highest lightning ground strike areas.
The primary risk factor remains not reacting to the threat of a
lightning strike in time. Remember to LOOK and LISTEN for the
approaching thunder. STOP your outdoor activity immediately
and find shelter. A car can be a good shelter. Close your windows
and do not touch any metal parts of your car.
Lightning strike prevention
• Avoid being outside during thunderstorms.
• If you hear thunder, you are in range of a lightning strike – seek
shelter immediately.
• Avoid contact with any conductive material like computers and
landline phones.
• Do not carry metal objects like golf clubs or fishing rods.
• Avoid being in or near water during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid elevated areas and tall objects like trees or hills.
• Wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike before
resuming outside activities.
• Avoid handwashing dishes or showering as lightning can travel
through plumbing.
