We’ve grown up being told not to take a shower during a thunderstorm, but why is this? There is actually a very good reason for this and there are also other important things we should not being doing during a lightning storm. Lightning storms are very dangerous and have the potential to be deadly, even when you’re “safe” inside your home.
The reason lightening can be so dangerous inside your home, is because it can travel through anything that conducts electricity, this includes plumbing, landlines and of course, electrical wiring.
Since the plumbing in your home allows electricity to travel through it, you need to stay out of the shower and even indoor swimming pools to avoid being shocked by lightning.
Don’t worry about unplugging your devices during a storm as a current could travel through it and potentially shock you. If you know that a storm is approaching, feel free to unplug any expensive devices you might have beforehand. You’ll also want to avoid touching any electrical outlets during a storm as well, as lighting can get to you this way.
If you need to make a phone call during a thunderstorm, use a cell phone over your landline. Lightening can also travel through the cord on the landline.
Luckily, there aren’t too many severe thunder and lightning storms in Southwestern Pennsylvania, but it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings and the potential dangers that can occur within your home. Keep your family safe and heed these precautions during a storm.
