The important thing is to be sure no part of the tow vehicle or trailer is close to or touching the ground, including, chairs, lead ropes and buckets. More riders are lost in local thunderstorms than in hurricanes or tornadoes. Stay alert to the weather and take prompt action when a storm is coming. One strike, you're out Death by lightening doesn't attract the nationwide attention of hurricanes, tornadoes and floods, and statistics for livestock deaths due to lightening are uncertain. Estimates vary, but it is certain that lightening kills.
Ground current is one reason horses and cattle are especially susceptible.
While ground current only affects the feet and legs of a standing person, it is a common cause of death among horses and cattle whose vital organs are in the current path. Lightening kills most horses in barns, often due to fire. The good news is that lightening rods can help prevent livestock deaths, not only in the barn, but also if they are installed near trees and troughs. Reid Folsom is a security consultant specializing in farms and ranches. Visit our Contact Us page.