Lightning: first aid if someone is struck during a thunderstorm
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Storms are part of our Quebec summers: soccer fields, beaches, campsites and construction sites empty out under the rumble of thunder. But what if the worst happens and someone is struck by lightning near you? First aid for lightning strikes is little known, and several misconceptions make witnesses hesitate when every second counts. In this article, you will learn what to do — from securing the scene to CPR and defibrillators — as well as the simple rule to avoid most storm-related accidents.
A myth to debunk: the victim is not "electrified"
This belief costs the most in reaction time: no, a person struck by lightning does not retain any electrical charge. You can touch them safely and begin first aid immediately. Unlike an accident with household current — where you must first cut off the source, as we explain in our article on electric shock — the danger of lightning has passed as soon as the lightning struck. The only remaining risk is the storm itself.
First aid step by step
If a person is struck by lightning, here's what to do:
- 1. Protect yourself first. Lightning can strike twice in the same place. If the storm is still active, move the victim to a safe shelter (building or vehicle) if you can do so without exposing yourself to danger.
- 2. Call 911 or ask a witness to do so while you stay with the person.
- 3. Check consciousness and breathing. Lightning can cause cardiac or respiratory arrest.
- 4. If the person is not breathing, start CPR immediately and send someone to get an AED if one is nearby. Follow the voice prompts of the device.
- 5. If they are breathing, place them in the recovery position, cover them to keep them warm and dry, and monitor their breathing until help arrives.
- 6. Look for burns at the entry and exit points of the current. Cover them with a dry sterile dressing, without cream or ointment.
Even if the person seems to recover, a medical evaluation is necessary: some effects of lightning are not immediately visible.
Multiple people affected: who to help first?
Lightning can strike several people at once, by ground current or side flash. In this case, the usual logic is reversed: first attend to those who appear lifeless. Those who are moving, talking, or screaming are breathing — those who are motionless and silent may be in cardiac arrest, and immediate CPR can revive them. This is one of the rare contexts where the most silent victims are treated first.
The 30-30 rule: the best protection is prevention
The Canadian Red Cross recommends a simple rule for storms:
- 30 seconds: if you count less than 30 seconds between lightning and thunder, the storm is close enough to be dangerous. Take shelter immediately in a building or closed vehicle.
- 30 minutes: wait 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
Avoid sheltering under trees, near poles, metal fences, or in open terrain. At home and at work, keep a complete first aid kit handy — our kits for individuals cover home, car, and outdoor use.
Be prepared: CPR, AED, and training
Cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death related to lightning — and this is precisely the situation where a trained bystander makes all the difference. First aid and CPR training gives you the necessary reflexes, and an accessible automated external defibrillator (AED) — at the cottage, sports field, or workplace — increases the chances of survival. To learn more, consult our guide on AEDs in the workplace.
Key takeaways
A person struck by lightning can be safely touched: secure the scene, call 911, check breathing, and start CPR with an AED if necessary. If there are multiple victims, help the most silent ones first. And remember the 30-30 rule so you never find yourself in this situation. Equip yourself now: AEDs, kits, and training are your best allies when the sky rumbles.
This article is for educational purposes only. In case of emergency, dial 911.