Lightning Can Be a Real Shock!

What is the Lightning Can Be a Real Shock! program?

The Lightning safety program was started after six-year-old Hannah Mowery was struck and killed by lightning in October 2000.  When the ATSPA proposed starting the program, her parents agreed to help in hopes that other parents would be able to avoid experiencing the same tragedy.  The presentation and accompanying brochure is designed to educate children and adults about what lightning is, when it occurs, its effects on the body and how to avoid being struck.  It is an interactive program, which teaches children the facts vs. the myths about lightning safety.
 

Why are lightning safety presentations needed?

Lightning is the most dangerous and frequently encountered weather hazard people experience each year.  Pennsylvania is one of ten states with the highest incidence of lightning injury and death.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates there are 200 deaths and 750 severe injuries from lightning each year in the U.S.  Twenty percent of these strikes result in death, while seventy percent will leave victims with serious long-term effects.  85% of lightning victims are children and young men ages 10-35 who are engaged in outdoor recreation and work activities.
 

What do children learn from lightning safety presentations?

Children learn what lightning is through interactive demonstrations while using items such as sparklers and balloons.  They also learn the difference between safe and unsafe shelters, and how to protect themselves from a lightning strike if caught outdoors in an open area where a safe shelter can not be reached. 
 

Contact:

For more information about our lightning safety presentations and materials,
contact (717) 766-1616, 1 (800) 822-2358 or atspa@atspa.org.
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Lightning Can Be A Real Shock is a program brochure explaining the program by the same name (see Programs).  This program is designed to increase the public's awareness on the seriousness of lightning and educate them about safety guidelines to prevent needless tragedy.