HEREFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT

Serving Hereford Texas and Deaf Smith County Since 1908
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Things to Think About
 
Lightning
 
 
Fires started by lightning peak in the summer months and in the late afternoon and early evening.
 
 
-During 2002-2005, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 31,400 fires started by lightning. These fires caused annual averages of 12 civilian deaths, 57 civilian injuries, and $213 million in direct property damage.

-Outside and other fires accounted for 78% of the lightning fires reported to local fire departments.

-In 2002-2005, only 16% of reported lightning fires occurred in homes but these accounted for nearly all the associated civilian deaths, 90% of the associated injuries, and 58% of the direct property damage.

-Most of the victims were somewhere outside when lightning struck.

-Lightning also causes non-fire deaths and injuries. According to the National Weather Service reports, in 2006, lightning caused 47 deaths and 242 injuries.

-National Interagency Fire Center statistics show that in 2002-2006, an average of 12,000 (16%) of the wildland fires were started by lightning per year. These fires burned an average of 5.2 million acres per year.

-The January 2006 West Virginia coal mine explosion that claimed 12 lives was the deadliest U.S. fire started by lightning in recent years
 
 

 


-Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers, and turn off air conditioners. If you are unable to unplug them, turn them off.

 
-Follow the 30-30 rule: When you see lightning, count the seconds until you hear thunder. If that time is 30 seconds or less, the thunderstorm is within six miles and is dangerous. Seek shelter immediately. The threat of lightning continues longer than most people think. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before leaving your shelter.


-If you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of lightning. Seek shelter immediately.
Stop outdoor activities at the first clap of thunder and get inside a house, large building, or a hard-topped vehicle.


-When inside, stay off corded phones, computers, and other electronic equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity or plumbing. Avoid washing your hands, showering, bathing, doing laundry, or washing dishes.

-If you are in open water, go to land and seek shelter immediately.


-If you feel your hair stand on end, indicating that lightning is about to strike, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contract with the ground. Do not lie flat on the ground. This is a last resort when a building or hard-topped vehicle is not available.


-If a person is struck by lightning, call 911 and get medical care immediately. Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge; attend to them immediately. Check their breathing, heartbeat, and pulse.