What to Do in Specific Emergency Situations

Severe Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms are very common and always involve lightning. They are sometimes associated with the related hazards of tornadoes, strong winds, hail, and flash floods. Be aware of the following when dealing with a thunderstorm-related emergency while on the job:

• A thunderstorm watch occurs when severe thunderstorms
  are likely.
• A thunderstorm warning indicates imminent danger to life and property for those in the path of the storm.
• Prepare for a power outage by locating flashlights, a battery-operated radio, and batteries.
• If a customer or fellow employee is struck by lightning, provide first aid immediately if you are trained to do so. The individual struck will not
  carry an electrical charge. If he/she is not breathing, perform resuscitation procedures to the best of your ability.

Transit Facilities:

• Consider any downed power lines as potentially deadly and dangerous—do not go near them. Report them immediately by calling 911.
• Do not handle any electrical equipment or telephones because lightning’s electrical current can follow the wires.
  Avoid water faucets and sinks because metal pipes and water can transmit electricity.

Transit Vehicles:

• Stay inside the vehicle. Remember, you are much safer inside the vehicle than outside.
• Bus and Van: Pull the vehicle to the shoulder of the roadway and turn emergency flashers on until heavy rain subsides.
• Rail: Be observant for downed wires or fires and other issues with third
  rail, catenary, and transformers.