Meteorology · Thunderstorms — Lightning Safety
During a thunderstorm aboard a small vessel, a sensible precaution is to:
- AStand on the highest deck
- BHold onto the metal mast
- CStay low, avoid contact with metal/rigging, and keep away from the tallest point if possible✓ Correct
- DTrail a wire in the water and grip it
Explanation
Lightning seeks the highest point (often the mast). Crew should stay low, inside if possible, avoid touching metal shrouds, rails, and electronics, and not be the tallest object. A properly bonded lightning-protection system helps conduct a strike to ground (the water) away from people.
Authority: USCG boating safety; lightning safety
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