What is the main rule for lightning safety on water?

• A. Get off water, avoid metal contact
• B. Hide under a tree
• C. Stand in the center of the deck
• D. Continue paddling to shore

Answer: (A)

Lightning safety on the water centers on getting off the water and away from anything conductive. Water conducts electricity well, and a kayak, paddle, and other gear can provide a path for current to reach you. The quickest, safest move is to exit the water and minimize contact with metal, reducing the chance that you become part of the current if a strike occurs.

Hiding under a tree is risky because trees attract lightning and can be struck or have branches fall; standing in the center of the deck doesn’t remove you from the water or from any conductive path, and continuing to paddle to shore still leaves you on open water during the storm. Exiting the water and avoiding metal contact is the best way to lower your risk.