Lightning Strike |
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DESCRIPTION
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A lightning strike sends a strong electrical charge either through the body or over its surface. If it hits you or something close to you, lightening can cause serious injury. You may get burned if you have any metal on your body (a belt buckle, a zipper, or coins, for example). After a mild lightening injury, you will usually feel better within hours or days. A severe injury, however, can cause lasting damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, or ears, and may even be fatal. To avoid being struck by lightening, stay away from anything made from metal, such as wire fences, umbrellas, pipelines, metal clotheslines, and golf clubs, during an electrical storm. Also avoid standing near trees, in a clearing, or on a hilltop.
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SYMPTOMS
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In some cases, you may be hit by lightening and not even know it. A mild strike may cause pain, headache, confusion, tingling, numbness, or weakness, sometimes accompanied by difficulties with vision, hearing, and memory. In a severe strike, the blast of electricity may tear the clothing or shoes from your body. Burns may not be visible at first, but may appear hours later. You may have broken bones, and if the heart is severely injured, it may stop.
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CARE
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For anything more than a mild injury, call 911 or 0 (operator) for help. A severe lightning injury is an EMERGENCY. The victim may need CPR if the heartbeat or breathing has stopped. Hospitalization is needed for tests and treatment. Even if the injury is mild, you should check with your doctor. You may need medicine for pain and swelling, and the doctor may feel you need a tetanus shot.
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