Emergency Care Techniques Unveiled

In the vast expanse of Germany's skies, a relatively rare yet potentially dangerous event occurs each year: lightning strikes. According to the German Weather Service (Deutscher Wetterdienst), on average, four lives are lost annually due to these electrical discharges.

While the chances of being struck by lightning might seem minuscule compared to other common risks, it is essential to understand the potential consequences. Each year, approximately 110 people are admitted to hospitals or receive medical treatment for injuries resulting from lightning strikes.

Direct strikes can cause severe injuries, such as severe burns, bone fractures, eye injuries, and muscle and nerve spasms. However, most of the electrical current from a lightning strike does not flow through the body but rather over its surface. This fact may offer a glimmer of hope, as it suggests that the immediate danger often lies in the disruption of the heart's rhythm, potentially leading to cardiac arrest.

If a person is no longer responsive after a lightning strike, immediate Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) should be performed. The national organization that statistically records annual lightning strike deaths in Germany is the German Weather Service (Deutscher Wetterdienst).

Lightning releases energy that exceeds our imagination, with several million volts involved and temperatures reaching up to 30,000 degrees Celsius. These extreme conditions highlight the potential danger posed by lightning strikes.

It is crucial to seek medical attention for the person as soon as possible after a lightning strike. Despite the low probability of being injured by lightning, it is essential to remember that the risk is significantly lower than that of being involved in a traffic accident.

Stay safe and aware during thunderstorms, and remember, when in doubt, seek medical help promptly.