Question

What is the damage caused by lightning? How will you create awareness to prevent it?

Answer 1

Damage caused by lightning are:

• A fire can start if the lightning strike makes contact with flammable material. These can include gas pipes, wood, paper, etc.
• If lightning follows electrical wiring, then the wires gets overheated which can cause a fire hazard.
• Lightning can cause damage to walls, concrete, plaster and glass of a building. It can damage the electrical appliances connected to damaged sockets.
• Lightning can damage tall trees and crops. It can even lead to forest fire.
• Lightning, if strikes on living beings, can take their lives.

These damages can be prevented if preventive guidelines against lightning is taught to each and every individual. The preventive measures can be propagated to people using different mediums such as books, T.V., radio, etc. Awareness programmes should be conducted in schools and societies to educate people and students about the wrath of lightning and measures to fight it. Following are some safety measures which should be told and followed by individuals when lightning strikes:
If outdoor:
1. Avoid taking shelter under trees.
2. Avoid being near to any kind of metal objects which may include metal wires, fences, machinery and power appliances.
3. Take shelter inside a fully enclosed car with all the windows shut.
If indoor:
1. Turn off all the electrical appliances such as television and refrigerator.