By PJ Baron
BLOOMINGTON – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is reminding citizens to stay indoors when a lightning strike approaches.
The IEMA is making sure citizens know how to stay safe during summer storm season. Agency Spokeswoman Patti Thompson explained how being struck by lightning can leave more than a large scar on someone.
“Nerve damage, chronic pains, headaches, the most important message is to prevent that from happening. Again, death isn’t the only thing that can happen to you if you get struck by lightning,” said Thompson.
Thompson expressed how sporting activities in particular need to be aware of how to react in the event of a lightning storm.
“They’re enjoying what they’re doing, they think it’s going to pass by, they think it’s too far away. But they need to keep in mind that lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the storm. So even though you see it in the distance, that lightning could reach out as far as you are,” said Thompson.
Thompson explained that the best way to stay safe during a lightning storm is to remain in a solid building with four walls and a roof.
PJ Baron can be reached at news@wjbc.com.
