Mountain risks: thunderstorms

Thunderstorms can have serious consequences. However, it is possible to take certain precautions to protect yourself from them, whether you are at home or on an excursion. We also give you some keys to intervene as a witness.

Summary: 

• Minimize the risk
• Avoid lightning
• React in case of lightning strike

• It is important to get well informed about weather conditions before undertaking an outing. If you notice a formation of cumulonimbus-type clouds, this can indicate a high risk of thunderstorms in your area. 

• If you are taking a walk or if you are near a forest, stay away from wooded areas. Indeed, during a storm, these are areas particularly susceptible to fires.

• Unplug all electrical equipment.

• Stay away from wet or submerged areas, waterways...

• Stay alert in case of heavy rains, as flood risks should not be excluded.

Indoors:

• Avoid staying near windows.

• Using a cell phone is acceptable. However, if possible, unplug all electrical devices.

Outdoors:

• Take shelter in a concrete building or an isolated area.

• Avoid taking shelter under an umbrella.

• Get out of your tent and crouch down or get into a fetal position. Indeed, standing or lying down promotes electrical circulation (contained in our body). In extreme cases, put your feet in contact with insulating materials like your bag, a rope or a coat and pull your head into your shoulders. 

• Do not touch metal parts such as pylons, poles or fences.

• Leave at least 3 meters between each person.

• First, eliminate the danger by removing any object that could be a risk. 

• Check the condition of the victim. 

• If the victim is breathing, put them in the recovery position (recovery position). 

• If they are no longer breathing, perform cardiac massage and use a defibrillator if possible. 

• Call emergency services by dialing 18 or 112.

Discover another article on mountain risks concerning this time avalanches. On vetsecurite.com, find a wide selection of products for bivouacking, hiking and camping: clothing, shoes, survival equipment, backpack, tents and tarps, sleeping bags, stoves and cooking accessories, freeze-dried meals and much more!