Lightning Strike Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Nayana Ambardekar, MD on September 12, 2021
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
1 min read

People struck by lightning may suffer cardiac arrest, so immediate and aggressive resuscitation greatly improves survival.

  • If you are at risk from ongoing lightning, wait until danger has passed or move to a safer place, if possible.

It is safe to touch the person. The body does not retain an electrical charge.

If the person is not conscious, does not have a pulse, and does not appear to be breathing normally, use an automated external defibrillator (AED), if one is on hand, or:

  • Do not remove burned clothing unless necessary.
  • Lay the victim down with head slightly lower than torso and legs.
  • The emergency medical team will assess the person's condition.
  • At the hospital, the person will be examined for internal or neurological injuries and burns.