Amanda Knapp
Being caught in a lightning storm while boating can be extremely dangerous. While there are no lightning-proof boats, some boats are more vulnerable than others. Fiberglass is not a conductive material, but if you are holding something that is wet, you can get struck by lightning. Additionally, any projection above the flat surface of the water on a fiberglass boat acts as a potential lightning rod. Therefore, it is crucial to take safety precautions when boating in a thunderstorm, such as staying low in the boat, discontinuing water activities, and heading to shore if possible.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety of fiberglass boats during lightning | Fiberglass is a non-conductive material, so it is safer than metal boats during lightning. However, if the boat has any metal components, the lightning can pass through the body of the person holding them. |
| Safety precautions | Stay in the cabin or the center of the boat. Keep your arms and legs inside the boat. Do not fish or participate in water sports. Avoid holding metal objects or wearing metal jewelry. Lower the antenna and fishing rods. |
| Vulnerability of fiberglass boats | Fiberglass boats are more vulnerable to lightning strikes than metal boats because they lack built-in lightning rods. The lightning can strike any projections above the water, such as antennas or fishing rods. |
| Consequences of a lightning strike | A lightning strike can cause burn marks, damage electronic equipment, and create a hole in the hull. It can also result in serious injuries or death. |
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What You'll Learn
Fiberglass is a non-conductive material
Fiberglass is also used in power generation, as it is a good insulator. Its non-conductive properties make it ideal for use in areas where electricity is generated, such as tank farms and scrubbers.
Additionally, fiberglass is incombustible, meaning it does not support or propagate a flame. It also has low thermal conductivity, which is useful in the building industry. Due to its low heat conductivity, it is often used for heat insulation in buildings.
However, when it comes to lightning, the non-conductive nature of fiberglass can be a disadvantage. In a metal hull boat, the boat itself acts as a lightning rod, dissipating the charge and providing some protection. On the other hand, fiberglass boats do not have this property, and a lightning strike will seek the most efficient path to the water, which could be through the boat's outrigger, antenna, or T-top.
Therefore, while fiberglass is generally safe and has many useful applications, it may not provide adequate protection against lightning strikes. It is always advisable to seek shelter and follow safety protocols during a lightning storm, regardless of the type of boat or structure you are in.
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Safety precautions to take during a lightning storm
While there are no lightning-proof boats, only lightning-protected boats, there are several safety precautions you can take to protect yourself during a lightning storm. Here are some essential guidelines:
Stay Informed and Seek Shelter:
- Stay updated with weather reports and observations of climatic conditions. Be vigilant for signs of approaching thunderstorms, such as cumulonimbus clouds or a coppery haze.
- If you're on a boat, head to shore as soon as possible when a storm is imminent.
- If you're unable to reach shore, seek shelter in a cabin or enclosed area of the boat. Stay in the center of the cabin, away from windows and portholes.
Minimize Risk of Lightning Strike:
- Lower your boat's profile by reducing anything that extends upward. This includes lowering antennas, outriggers, and fishing rods.
- Avoid using in-boat radios with antennas, and turn off electrical equipment.
- Refrain from water activities such as fishing, water skiing, or swimming during a lightning storm.
- Avoid dangling your arms or legs in the water, as lightning can travel through the water.
- If you're in the water and unable to reach the boat or shore, avoid being the tallest object. Try to stay low, with only your head above the water.
Protect Yourself and Your Boat:
- If you're in a small boat, consider tying up under a small bridge or seeking shelter in a boat house to stay out of direct lightning exposure.
- If possible, install lightning protection systems, such as a lightning rod or a properly grounded antenna, to provide a path for lightning to travel safely into the water.
- Avoid touching or holding on to wet surfaces or conductive materials, such as metal or graphite fishing rods.
- Remove metal jewelry and stay close to the inside of the boat.
- If steering the boat, use non-conductive materials like wood or rubber to control the steering wheel.
Remember, lightning storms can be extremely dangerous, and it's always best to avoid being on the water during a storm if possible. Keep a "weather eye" and prioritize your safety by heading to shore or seeking appropriate shelter.
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What to do if someone has been struck by lightning
It is important to remember that lightning can be extremely dangerous and that, even if it doesn't result in death, it can still cause serious injury. If someone has been struck by lightning, follow these steps:
- Call for emergency medical help immediately.
- If the person is unconscious, check their breathing, pulse, and circulation. If necessary, begin CPR.
- Check for any burns or injuries caused by the lightning strike. Lightning can cause severe burns and damage to internal organs, even if there are no visible external injuries.
- If the person is breathing and has a pulse, place them in the recovery position and continue to monitor their breathing and vital signs until emergency services arrive.
- Remove any jewellery or tight clothing from the affected area, as these may restrict circulation once swelling begins.
- Do not allow the person to walk or move around, as lightning can cause neurological damage that may affect their balance and coordination.
- Keep the person calm and still, as they may be experiencing disorientation or confusion.
- If possible, bring the person to a safe indoor location away from the lightning storm.
- Do not touch the person or anything touching them if they are still in contact with the lightning source, as it could be dangerous.
Remember, lightning strikes can be extremely dangerous and require immediate medical attention. Even if the person seems fine, it is crucial to get them checked by a medical professional as soon as possible.
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The dangers of lightning strikes
Lightning strikes pose a serious threat to boaters and can be deadly. In the United States, lightning kills more than 100 people per year. While there are no lightning-proof boats, only lightning-protected boats, fiberglass boats are more vulnerable to lightning strikes than metal boats. This is because fiberglass is not a conductive material, so when lightning strikes a fiberglass boat, the electrical current will seek any route to the ground, and the human body is an excellent conductor of electricity. Therefore, if you are holding something wet or made of metal, the lightning strike could pass through your body.
To minimize the risk of lightning strikes when boating, it is important to take safety precautions. If there is an enclosure (cabin) available, stay in the center of the cabin. If not, stay low in the boat to avoid being the tallest object. Keep arms and legs inside the boat and avoid dangling them in the water. Do not go fishing, water-skiing, scuba diving, or swimming during a lightning storm, and discontinue these activities when weather conditions look threatening.
If your boat has an antenna, ensure it is properly grounded to provide a cone of protection. Turn off the VHF radio and lower its antenna, and avoid using metal jewelry. If your boat has a fiberglass antenna, you can use a "lightning arrestor" to protect your radio, and clamp a wire to a metal rod to act as a lightning interceptor. Lower any outriggers or fishing rods, and use a piece of wood or rubber to control the steering wheel if necessary.
If you are caught in a lightning storm and unable to take shelter, the National Fire Protection Association's Lightning Protection Code suggests the following: stay in the center of the cabin if possible, or stay low in the boat if there is no cabin. Keep arms and legs inside the boat, and do not dangle them in the water. Avoid standing up, as this increases the risk of being struck by lightning.
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Metal boats vs. fiberglass boats
When it comes to choosing between a metal and a fiberglass boat, there are several factors to consider. Metal boats, typically made of aluminium, are often more affordable, lightweight, and require less maintenance than their fiberglass counterparts. They are also more impact-resistant, making them a popular choice for rivers with boulders or other potential hull hazards. Additionally, aluminium boats can dissipate lightning strikes more effectively, potentially reducing the risk of serious harm to occupants.
On the other hand, fiberglass boats offer superior comfort and aesthetics. Their heavier weight provides better seakeeping abilities and stability, making them ideal for choppy waters. Fiberglass is also easily moulded into complex designs, allowing for integrated accessories and custom creations with sleek lines. However, this material is generally more expensive upfront and over time, and its weight can impact capacity and engine performance.
In terms of safety during lightning storms, metal boats may have an advantage over fiberglass. Metal, being a good conductor, can act as a lightning rod, routing electricity to the water and potentially protecting occupants. However, it's important to note that painted metal boats may be at a higher risk of damage from lightning strikes, as the paint can absorb water and cause an explosion. While fiberglass is not a great conductor, it lacks an inherent lightning rod, which could increase the risk of a direct strike on the boat or its occupants.
Ultimately, the choice between a metal and a fiberglass boat depends on individual needs and priorities. Metal boats are ideal for those seeking affordability, low maintenance, and good conductivity during lightning storms. Fiberglass boats, while more expensive and high-maintenance, offer superior comfort, stability, and customisation options. Regardless of boat type, it is always advisable to seek shelter and prioritise safety during lightning storms.
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Frequently asked questions
No boat is completely safe in lightning, but fiberglass is not a conductive material, so it is safer than metal boats.
Stay in the centre of the cabin if possible. If there is no cabin, stay low in the boat. Keep your arms and legs inside the boat and avoid dangling them in the water.
Install a lightning rod or a "lightning arrestor" to intercept lightning strikes. Lower or remove any objects that stick up, such as antennas, fishing rods, and outriggers. Turn off the VHF radio and lower its antenna.
Check the person for burns and administer first aid if necessary. If they are unconscious, check for breathing and a heartbeat. Perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or cardiopulmonary resuscitation if needed.
The safest place is typically ashore, in an enclosed building. If you are caught on the water during a lightning storm, seek shelter and avoid standing up or having your arms and legs outside the boat.
