There are a lot of silly myths about lightning. For instance, a plane getting hit by lightning generally isn't really that big of a deal. Although pilots aren't crazy about it and do their best to avoid thunderstorms, planes are built to safely conduct currents. Yes, lighting will strike the same place twice, and many tall structures are hit often. Even the old “rubber tires on a car protect you from lightning strikes” belief is totally false. A car is safe because it has a metal roof and sides to conduct the current to the ground. There are a lot of common misconceptions about how lightning works and what it can affect, so it's not altogether crazy to think that the old "don't shower during a storm" line is just another old wives' tale. However, don't be mistaken about this one — showering during a thunderstorm is genuinely risky business. Most household plumbing systems have metal pipes, and lightning finds these metallic conduits all too irresistible. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, particularly when loaded with impurities. Engaging in activities like showering, washing dishes or even just washing your hands makes you an easy target for a stray bolt seeking a path of least resistance. So what should you do if you’re caught outside in a thunderstorm? To start, avoid elevated areas. Lightning tends to strike the tallest objects, like trees. If you can't find shelter, squat low to the ground, but minimize contact. The idea is to make yourself a smaller target. If you’re indoors, watch out for concrete because it might contain metal reinforcement. Skip phone calls — corded phone calls are a no-no, and even cell phones can pose risks if connected to chargers. While many may think the threat is exaggerated, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
