What to do if someone is struck by lightning?

If someone is struck by lightning, it is a medical emergency that requires immediate action. Lightning strikes can cause cardiac arrest, severe burns, nervous system injuries, and trauma from being thrown or falling. Here’s what to do:

1. Ensure scene safety

• Make sure it is safe to approach. Lightning can strike the same area more than once.

• Move yourself and the victim to a safe location away from open fields, tall objects, or water.

2. Call emergency services immediately

• Dial your local emergency number as soon as possible.

• Give clear information: a lightning strike, the victim’s condition, and location.

3. Check responsiveness and breathing

• If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR right away.

• Lightning victims often go into cardiac arrest, but CPR can save their life.

• Continue CPR until professional help arrives or the person starts breathing on their own.

4. Check for pulse and breathing again

• If breathing is present but unconscious, place them on their side (recovery position) to keep their airway clear.

5. Treat visible injuries

• Look for burns, especially at entry and exit points of the strike (commonly the head, shoulders, and feet). Cover burns with a clean, dry cloth or dressing.

• If there are fractures, bleeding, or spinal injuries (from being thrown), provide first aid carefully without moving them unnecessarily.

6. Keep the person warm and calm

• Shock is common. Cover them with a blanket or clothing to maintain body temperature.

7. Do not delay treatment

• Unlike other electrical injuries, lightning victims do not carry an electric charge—it is safe to touch them once the strike is over.