Getting struck by lightning might seem like one of those impossible things more or less relegated to the world of idioms, but the truth of the matter is that it’s a lot more likely than we’d want to believe. So just in case, The Art of Manliness has created this handy little infographic on how to maximise your chances of survival should lightning actually strike.
Which is all well and good, but none of this is of much use if you have no idea what to look for pre-electric-touchdown. So what are the signs of an impending strike? According to the Art of Manliness:
Use the 30/30 Rule: If, after seeing lightning, you can’t count to 30 before hearing thunder, get inside a building or car. Don’t go outside until 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder…
If you’re caught outdoors and see signs that a lightning strike is imminent (your hair stands on end, your skin tingles, you hear a buzzing, clicking, hissing, or cracking sound, or see metal objects emitting a soft, blue-white glow) or you simply think you’re in danger, immediately assume the position above to increase your chances of surviving, should the lightning strike you directly, or close to you.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to stay as low as possible and, ideally, take cover under a dense growth of not-too-high trees. Tall, isolated objects though (be they trees or poles) should be avoided at all costs. And to all you Ben Franklin wannabes — well, let’s just say we recommend getting your affairs in order first. [The Art of Manliness via Digg]