Norfolk County Man Rushed To Hospital After Being Struck By Lightning

Sunday, 26 May 2019 12:03

The 65 year-old man was working outside in a field when he was struck by lightning. He was later transported by ambulance to hospital where he was then air lifted to a Hamilton area hospital for further treatment.

NORFOLK COUNTY - The Norfolk County OPP is reminding anyone who works outdoors or is caught outdoors during a storm to take cover immediately. Police are also warning parents and caregivers to not allow young children to play outside in the warm rain during an electrical storm.

OPP and Norfolk County Paramedic Services responded to an incident at a home in Norfolk County yesterday at approximately 6:11 p.m, after a man had been struck by lightning.

Every year in Canada, six to ten people are killed and another 150-160 people are injured as a result of lightning strikes according to Environment Canada. Everyone needs to have a safety plan in place regarding electrical storms and review it annually. 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.

The OPP continually works with their Community Partners to help promote safety. Lightning is extremely dangerous and caution must always be exercised to prevent injury and death. Safety doesn't happen by accident.

To learn more about hazards from Environment Canada, visit online here.