Date: 29/04/2013 – fatal lightning strike What happened?

1. PDO safety advice • Date:29/04/2013 – fatal lightning strike • What happened? • Two employees were struck by lightning when they returned to their canter to evacuate the worksite due to bad weather. One died on the spot whilst the second sustained minor injuries. The lightning was attracted to the vehicle’s antennae and discharged through the bodies of the employees as they provided the easiest path to earth. • Your learning if caught in a thunderstorm: • Avoid tall objects such as trees, poles and masts. • • Avoid any high ground. • • Avoid being near to any metallic structure. • • Remain in buildings or inside a vehicle with the windows closed. • • Never use a radio, GSM or phone – it attracts lightning. • • Unplug all non essential electrical appliances . • • If possible stay off the road during heavy rain. • If caught outside in a thunderstorm and your skin tingles and hair stands on end, lightning is about to strike. Crouch down, balance on the balls of your feet, place hands on knees with head between them. This makes you into the smallest target possible, and minimizes contact with the ground. Lightning kills – follow the advice and stay alive 1