# AI advises lying flat on the ground during a lightning storm to minimize height

- **ID:** `disaster/lightning-crouch-flat-ground-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 80%

## Root Cause

Lying flat increases the body's contact area with the ground, raising the risk of ground current injury from nearby lightning strikes. The correct action is the lightning crouch: feet together, squat low, minimize contact with the ground.

## Workarounds

1. **Assume the lightning crouch: squat low on the balls of your feet, heels together, head tucked, hands over ears. Minimize contact with the ground. Do not lie flat.** (85% success)
   ```
   Assume the lightning crouch: squat low on the balls of your feet, heels together, head tucked, hands over ears. Minimize contact with the ground. Do not lie flat.
   ```
2. **If indoors, stay away from windows, doors, and electrical appliances. Do not use corded electronics.** (90% success)
   ```
   If indoors, stay away from windows, doors, and electrical appliances. Do not use corded electronics.
   ```
3. **If in a vehicle, stay inside with windows rolled up. Avoid touching metal parts.** (95% success)
   ```
   If in a vehicle, stay inside with windows rolled up. Avoid touching metal parts.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Telling people to stand under a single tree for shelter increases lightning strike risk. (90% fail)
- **** — Recommending to hold a metal object like an umbrella attracts lightning. (95% fail)
- **** — Suggesting to lie flat in an open field as the safest position increases ground current danger. (85% fail)