Lightning and The Crew

B

Bill and Brenda Russell

New member
Lighting on the farm is dangerous but protection is close.

On the water there are few places to run for shelter. Brenda and I have endured frightening lightning storms on some of our adventures aboard "Falcon".

C-Brats tell us WHAT IS SAFE. There may be a post that already covers this issue of crew safety that was overlooked on previously searches.

Bill and Brenda Russell
870-533-2663
 
LOTS of stuff on the internet about this. This from the National Weather Service.

On the Water

The vast majority of lightning injuries and deaths on boats occur on small boats with NO cabin. It is crucial to listen to the weather when you are boating. If thunderstorms are forecast, don't go out. If you are out on the water and skies are threatening, get back to land and find a safe building or safe vehicle.

Boats with cabins offer a safer, but not perfect, environment. Safety is increased further if the boat has a properly installed lightning protection system. If you are inside the cabin, stay away from metal and all electrical components. STAY OFF THE RADIO UNLESS IT IS AN EMERGENCY!

If you are caught in a thunderstorm on a small boat, drop anchor and get as low as possible. Large boats with cabins, especially those with lightning protection systems properly installed, or metal marine vessels are relatively safe. Remember to stay inside the cabin and away from any metal surfaces.

Charlie
 
many folks killed in a lighting strike on boats are fisherman.
why? well because most rods today are graphite and graphite conducts electricity very well. So if you have rods in hand or in the rod racks above you, take them out and place them on the floor.
 
starcrafttom":3n93v2qe said:
many folks killed in a lighting strike on boats are fisherman.
why? well because most rods today are graphite and graphite conducts electricity very well. So if you have rods in hand or in the rod racks above you, take them out and place them on the floor.
Click to expand...

I always try to stand a little ways away from a much taller guy to whom I've lent a hat with conductive jelly on the top. I also give him the 10' 6" rod and fish with the 9' rod. :lol:
 
I haven't been boating with lightning at the time because I get off the water when its stormy. Better yet, I don't even go when the weather is not cooperating.

Windsurfing is another story as we sail when its windy. In the winter towards spring some storms have lightning and when that is happening all sailors head to the beach and go home. Most of our masts are carbon fiber so lightning is a concern for us.
 
One nice thing about having friends that are sailers, especially if they are boating with you. In a lightening storm, sidle up to,but don't raft to,a nice BIG sail boat with a good 30 - 40+ft mast, (carbon fiber is good but most are aluminum -- that works OK too :!: ) Lay your antenna's down, and let that great big metal tree do the attracting for you. I'd probably stay withing 2-4 boat lengths :roll:

PS, If you don't have friends with that big mast, make some fast. Asking if they have any Grey Poupon might work :wink

NOTE: the other advice above is also very helpful :thup

Harvey
SleepyC :moon
 
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