When it comes to summer storms, the Newtown Bridle Lands Association urges you to use some good, old-fashioned horse sense.

In just one year, there are more than 20 million lightning strikes in the United States alone. Lighting is the second-leading cause of casualties (behind floods) of all storm-related phenomena, so it would behoove you to become aware of how to take precautions – for yourself and your horse.

Without getting into the physics of it, a cloud-to-ground lightning strike can be over five miles long and generate 100 million volts of electricity. A lightning bolt is five times hotter than the sun and it’s no surprise that trees that are struck by lightning will burst into flame. In cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, the electricity is running down from the clouds and up from the ground – going through whatever will conduct the energy, including people and horses.

Common sense says not to stand under a tall tree or near a metal fence, but horses are not aware of these unwritten rules. And since many lightning strikes will occur before the storm actually arrives – or even after it has passed over – it is essential to be prepared and bring your horse inside early.

Not all deaths come from a direct lightning strike. People and animals are often electrocuted as the current travels back upwards, from the ground, and the bigger the animal the bigger the risk. So, toughing a fence or a barm that has received a strike, and is holding a charge, can sometimes electrocute a horse.

Them, of course, in any storm there is a risk of being struck by falling tree branches or debris kicked up by high winds. Also, a dry horse is less conductive than a wet horse, so keeping the animal out of the rain is very important. The safest place is inside a building (while not touching the sides or being tied to the wall) with a lightning rod.

But what should you do if you are out on the trail as a storm approaches? First, look for shelter in a low-lying area away from water or metals. The idea is not to be the tallest thing around and not be out in the open.

Most importantly, dismount and move away from your horse. As much as you love him, you are at a higher risk when holding on to an animal with four metal shoes – as is the horse. Assume a squatting position with your feet together and your hands on your knees, but not on the ground. Get small and minimize contact with the ground.

Several people riding together should separate and create space. If your feel your hair standing on end, that is a warning side that charges are coming up through your body attempting to reach a charge cloud. In that case, immediately drop to a squatting position, but do not lie flat on the ground.

If anyone should sustain a severe shock, call 911. It is safe to touch a person who has been struck, so begin CPR immediately. If your horse is struck by lightning, call the vet.

The good news in all of this is that most lightning strike victims survive – especially if they receive prompt medical attention. Even though the potential of lightning strikes should be taken seriously, with precautions taken it shouldn’t have to dampen summer fun.

 - the information was excerpted from A Bolt from the Blue, an article in John Lyon’s Perfect Horse.