Summer is the perfect time for vacations, outdoor sports, boating, and backyard gatherings—but it's also peak lightning season across much of the United States. Every year, lightning causes injuries, fatalities, power outages, and costly property damage.
The good news? Most lightning-related injuries can be prevented by knowing when to seek shelter and following a few simple safety practices.
At Encore Land and Sea, we're committed to promoting lightning awareness and helping people stay safe both at home and in the workplace.
Why Lightning Safety Matters
Lightning is one of nature's most powerful hazards. A single bolt can reach temperatures hotter than the surface of the sun and strike up to
10–15 miles from the center of a storm.
That's why the
National Weather Service's
advice is simple:
When
thunder roars, go indoors.
If you can hear thunder, you're close enough to be struck by lightning.
Essential Summer Lightning Safety Tips
- Monitor the Forecast: Before spending time outdoors, check the weather forecast and keep an eye on developing storms. Summer thunderstorms can form quickly, especially during the afternoon.
- Leave Open Areas: Exit beaches, golf courses, athletic fields, parks, and other open spaces as soon as storms approach. Also stay away from isolated trees, utility poles, and other tall objects.
- Get Off the Water: If you're boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming, head to shore immediately. Water is one of the most dangerous places to be during a thunderstorm.
- Stay Safe Indoors:
- Avoid corded electronics and phones.
- Stay away from plumbing and running water.
- Avoid showers or baths until the storm passes.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before returning outside.
Lightning Safety for Outdoor Workers
Employees working in construction, utilities, landscaping, agriculture, and other outdoor industries face increased lightning risk.
Employers should:
- Monitor weather conditions throughout the day.
- Establish lightning safety procedures.
- Identify nearby shelters before work begins.
- Pause outdoor work when thunderstorms approach.
- Train employees on lightning safety protocols.
- Planning ahead helps reduce the risk of serious injuries.
If Someone Is Struck by Lightning
Lightning strike victims do
not carry an electrical charge and are safe to touch.
If someone is struck:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Begin CPR if needed and you’re trained.
- Use an AED if one is available.
- Continue providing care until emergency responders arrive.
Protecting More Than People
Lightning doesn't just threaten personal safety—it can also damage equipment, disrupt operations, and cause costly downtime.
Facilities such as manufacturing plants, utilities, data centers, water treatment plants, and commercial properties should evaluate their overall lightning risk as part of a comprehensive safety strategy.
While traditional lightning protection systems are designed to manage lightning after it strikes,
CMCE Lightning Suppression neutralizes the atmospheric conditions required for lightning formation, eliminating the risk of direct strikes altogether.
Stay Safe This Summer
A little preparation goes a long way. Before heading outdoors:
- Check the forecast.
- Listen for thunder.
- Seek shelter early.
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
By making
lightning safety part of your summer routine, you can help protect yourself, your family, your employees, and your property.
At
Encore Land and Sea, we're proud to support lightning awareness through education and innovative solutions that help keep people and critical infrastructure safer during every storm season.
Elevate Your Lightning Protection Strategy
Contact Encore Land and Sea to
request a proposal and learn how
CMCE technology can protect your property from the dangers of lightning strikes.
Phone: (888) 360-7786
Email:
sales@encorelandandsea.com
Website:
www.encorelandandsea.com
