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Norfolk resident struck by lightning

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A 49-year-old St. Williams resident refused medical treatment after being struck by lightning at around 7:35 a.m. on Saturday.

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Police say the resident was outside clearing the gutters of their home when lightning struck.

Officers and paramedics attended the scene but the resident declined any medical treatment.

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Two years ago a Norfolk family of four survived a lightning strike at their Courtland property. The parents and two children were given a clean bill of health after being transported to hospital.

Polcie remind residents who get caught outdoors during a lightning storm to take immediate cover.

Every year in Canada, 6-10 people are killed and another 150-160 persons are injured as a result of lightning strikes according to Environment Canada.

If you are caught out in the open remember that lightning generally strikes higher ground and prominent objects. Therefore you are encouraged to take shelter in low-lying areas such as valleys or ditches but watch for flooding.

“If you are with a group of people in an open area such as a soccer pitch or other venue, spread out, crouch down on the balls of your feet immediately, with your feet together, place your arms around your knees and bend forward. Be the smallest size possible and minimize your contact with the ground,” said a press release from Norfolk County OPP. “Don’t lie flat!”

More information regarding safety in storms can be found on the Environment Canada website.

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