Lightning Strike
High voltage atmospheric injury with unique patterns
Step by Step
Call emergency services. A person struck by lightning does not carry an electrical charge and is safe to touch, but move to safer shelter if the storm continues. If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR and use an AED as soon as possible. When several people are struck, those who appear lifeless are prioritised, because lightning often causes cardiac arrest that may respond to prompt resuscitation. Burns are often superficial, but internal injuries and heart rhythm problems can occur, so everyone struck needs hospital assessment. Prevention: when thunder roars, go indoors, and wait about 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back out.
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