Deaths due to lightning occur throughout the world and the incidences are more in the rural areas compared to the cities. A detailed study of the demographic profile of the victims of lightning strikes reveals that occupation and socio-economic factors are indirectly related to such deaths. Middle aged males are the most common victims specially when working in the open field during the afternoon. Though unpredictable, such deaths are preventable by following some simple precautionary measures. In spite of the fact that rapid death occurs due to anoxia and respiratory paralysis the number of fatalities can be reduced by prompt and proper basic life support like CPR.
Lightning, incidence & death
