I think its a useful info...
During the thunderstorm season, which seems to be occurring pretty often recently, we come across cases of people being struck and killed by lightning. Just recently, a 10-year-old girl watched in horror as lightning struck her mother dead at their goreng pisang stall in Air Hitam, Kedah. The girl was fortunate to escape with minor burns on her right foot in the incident. Meanwhile the a construction site supervisor was killed by lightning while taking shelter in a shed at Padang Timur, PJ. His two colleagues who were with him were admitted to the hospital with severe injuries.
While I do not have statistics for the number of deaths caused by lightning per year, of interest is the fact that according to this paper (pdf link), Kuala Lumpur ranks as no. 5 in the Top 10 areas of lightning density in the world. We certainly need more public awareness on the danger of lightning strikes and preventive measures we can take. Our Malaysian Meteorological Service has some pointers on Thunderstorm and Lightning Safety.
Before the Storm# Check the weather forecast before leaving for extended periods outdoors.
# Watch for signs of approaching storms.
# Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent — Golfers please take note!
When the Thunderstorm Approaches# Move to a sturdy building or car. Do not take shelter in small sheds or under isolated trees.
# If lightning is occurring and a sturdy shelter is not available, get inside a car and keep the windows up.
# Get out of boats and away from water.
# Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Avoid using the telephone or electrical appliances. Use phones only in an emergency. Unplug electrical appliances which are not in use.
# Do not take a bath or shower.
# Turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressors.
# If you are driving on highways and flyovers be alert to strong gusts.
# Get to higher ground if flash flooding is possible.
If Caught Outdoors and No Shelter is Nearby# Shelter in a low spot away from trees, fences and poles, that is not subject to flooding.
# If you are in a forested area, take shelter under the shorter trees.
# If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stand on end, squat low to the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible, and minimize your contact with the ground.
# If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately!
Remember a good lighting safety rule is:
If you hear it, fear it. If you see it, flee it.-Malaysian Medical Resources-
