Important to know: what to do during a thunderstorm

The thunderstorm season in Belarus occurs at different times each year, but generally begins in the second half of April and ends in early October. Annually, lightning causes damage to farms and residential buildings. It can cause fires, explosions, destruction, and sometimes injuries and deaths.

Lightning is dangerous when thunder follows the flash. In this case, the following safety measures must be taken.

When in an apartment or house in a rural area: close windows, doors, chimneys, and ventilation openings; do not light the stove, as high-temperature gases exiting the chimney have low resistance; do not talk on the phone.

During lightning strikes, do not go near electrical wiring, lightning rods, roof gutters, or antennas; do not stand near windows; turn off the TV, computer, and other electrical appliances in the house.

If a thunderstorm catches you in the forest, take shelter in a low-growing area. Do not hide near tall trees, especially pines, oaks, or poplars.

If you were on the beach, get out of the water, move away from the shore, and descend from a high place to a low-lying area.

When in a field without shelter, do not lie down on the ground, exposing your entire body to electric current, but squat in a hollow, ravine, or other natural depression, hugging your legs with your arms.

If a thunderstorm catches you in a car, do not leave it; close the windows and lower the radio antenna. If you are caught in a thunderstorm on a bicycle or motorcycle, stop moving and wait out the storm at a distance of approximately 30 m from your vehicle.

Inspector of SPiVO of Miory ROChS                                O.M. Girzha