New lightning safety policy, monitoring system announced

Lightning strikes approximately 1,000 persons annually in the United States and causes fatalities in roughly one third of these cases. Most accidents involve persons in outdoor, open areas. Lightning can strike from a clear, blue sky as much as 30 miles ahead of the main part of a storm.

Because of the dangers of lightning, the Department of Occupational Health and Safety has developed a new safety policy, "Lightning Safety for Outdoor Activities," which was approved earlier this year. The policy outlines the procedures to be followed in the event of the threat of lightning, and a lightning monitoring system has been installed at Public Safety, where it will be monitored.

The policy calls for those managing events to monitor the weather forecast. For large groups that will require 10 minutes for evacuation, electronic detection systems must be in place when severe weather is expected. The person in charge must suspend activities when directed by Public Safety or when the monitor indicates the presence of lighting. In the event of a large outdoor event such as Commencement the decision will be made by the highest ranking official available.

When lightning threatens, persons should seek shelter in buildings or if that is not available, in cars with the windows up and taking care not to touch the sides of the vehicle.

If outdoors, persons should avoid being near large trees or poles. Small trees in a wooded area are preferable.

The last resort is to crouch on the ground, with arms wrapped around knees and only the balls of feet touching the ground--do not lie flat on the ground.

Activity should not resume until 30 minutes after the last lightning or clap of thunder.

For information, call occupational health and safety at 831-8475 or Public Safety at 831-2222 or visit the web site at [http://www.udel.edu/OHS/lightningsafety.html].