Health · Public Health & Disease · 1 day ago
Lightning safety guidance warns against bathing and using plugged-in appliances
Brazil's Civil Defense advises people to take precautions inside homes during thunderstorms with lightning.
Avoid showering, washing dishes or using appliances connected to the mains, because electricity can travel through wiring and pipes.
Smartphones are safe to use if they are not charging, and people should stay away from windows, doors, balconies and concrete walls or floors.
Brazil recorded 572 lightning deaths between 2015 and 2024, and 154 were recorded at homes, though the data do not say whether those victims were indoors or in attached outdoor areas.
About 73% of the deaths occurred from October through March, with January and November recording the most.
If someone is struck, call the fire service at 193 or the ambulance service at 192; the person can be touched safely, but first check that the area is not at risk of another strike.
If the person is unconscious and not breathing and it is safe to approach, begin CPR and follow the emergency operator's instructions.
The Civil Defense of Rio Grande do Sul advises people to avoid bathing, washing dishes and using appliances plugged into the mains during thunderstorms with lightning.
Lightning can travel through a home’s electrical wiring and plumbing, causing serious accidents even though staying indoors is much safer than being outside.
Brazil recorded 572 lightning deaths from 2015 to 2024, including 154 deaths recorded at a residence.
The guidance also advises staying away from windows, doors, balconies and concrete walls or floors.
If someone is struck, call emergency services and check that the area is safe before approaching.
- Who
- The Civil Defense of Rio Grande do Sul issued the guidance. The article also cites recommendations from Brazil’s fire service.
- What
- People are advised to avoid bathing, washing dishes and using appliances plugged into the mains during lightning storms.
- When
- During thunderstorms with lightning, especially during the storm season from October to March.
- Where
- Inside homes in Brazil.
- Why
- Lightning can travel through electrical wiring and plumbing and cause serious accidents.
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- Brazil lightning deaths, 2015–2024
- 572
- Deaths recorded at a residence
- 154, about 27% of the total
- Seasonal share of deaths
- 73% occurred from October through March
- Emergency numbers
- 193 for the Fire Department; 192 for Samu