BANGKOK, 26 June 2015 – The National Institute for Emergency Medicine has warned the public to exercise extra caution while using their mobile phones during lightning storms as it increases risks of death by lightning.
As the rainy season begins, the institute has warned that people who use mobile phones outdoors during storms are more likely to sustain fatal internal injuries caused by lightning. Mobile phones contain conductive materials which can direct lightning into the body, causing massive internal damage.
The institute has also elaborated that in addition of using phones, being on open ground near tall objects also significantly increases the risk of being struck by lightning. As a precaution, the public are advised to seek shelter during storms
In case a person nearby is struck by lightning, passers-by are advised to first call the 1669 hotline. The lightning strike victims can be touched as the body does not retain any electrical charge. If the person is unconscious and does not appear to be breathing normally, use an automated external defibrillator (AED) or perform a CPR.
