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Struck By Lightning

A 49 year old from Norfolk County was hit by lightning on Saturday morning. The person refused medical treatment after officers and EMS arrived on scene.

NORFOLK COUNTY - Early Saturday morning, a 49 year old Norfolk County resident was struck by lightning when they were cleaning out their gutters of their home.  

Officers and paramedics arrived on scene and located the person who refused medical treatment.

Norfolk OPP are reminding anyone who works outdoors or is caught outdoors during a lightning storm to take immediate cover. They are also warning parents and caregivers of young children not to allow them to play outside in the warm rain during an electrical storm.

Each year in Canada, 6-10 people are killed and another 150-160 persons are injured as a result of lightning strikes according to Environment Canada.

It is recommended to have a safety plan in place regarding storms and review it each year. Having a safety plan will help to reduce risk and injury caused by lightning.

There is no safe place to be outside. If you can hear thunder, it is your warning that you are within striking distance of lightning. Immediately go to a well-constructed building or a fully-enclosed metal top vehicle.

Do not run under a tree or to a shelter that isn't grounded such as; a covered picnic shelter, carport, tent, baseball dugout, as well as other non-metal buildings (sheds and greenhouses).  

If you are caught out in the open remember that lightning generally strikes higher ground and prominent objects. Therefore you are encouraged to take shelter in low-lying areas such as valleys or ditches but watch for flooding.

If you are with a group of people in an open area such as a soccer pitch or other venue, spread out, crouch down on the balls of your feet immediately, with your feet together, place your arms around your knees and bend forward. Be the smallest size possible and minimize your contact with the ground. Don't lie flat.
 

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