# AI tells bystanders to wait 30 minutes after a lightning strike before touching the victim, fearing electrocution, but lightning victims are safe to touch immediately

- **ID:** `emergency/lightning-strike-wait-30-minutes-myth`
- **Domain:** emergency
- **Category:** life_safety
- **Error Code:** `LIGHTNING-MYTH-ERR-001`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 95%

## Root Cause

The myth that lightning victims remain electrified stems from confusion with electrical line contact; lightning discharge is instantaneous, and victims do not carry residual charge. Delaying CPR or first aid by 30 minutes drastically reduces survival chances.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| NOAA Lightning Safety Guidelines 2023 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Immediately check responsiveness and breathing. If not breathing, start CPR (30 compressions:2 breaths) and call 911. Example: 'Do not wait — touch the victim right away. They are safe.'** (95% success)
   ```
   Immediately check responsiveness and breathing. If not breathing, start CPR (30 compressions:2 breaths) and call 911. Example: 'Do not wait — touch the victim right away. They are safe.'
   ```
2. **If multiple victims, prioritize those who appear lifeless (respiratory arrest). Triage: lightning victims with burns may still have a pulse; those in cardiac arrest need immediate CPR.** (90% success)
   ```
   If multiple victims, prioritize those who appear lifeless (respiratory arrest). Triage: lightning victims with burns may still have a pulse; those in cardiac arrest need immediate CPR.
   ```
3. **Use an AED if available; lightning strike can cause ventricular fibrillation. Apply pads and follow prompts. Do not delay for any reason.** (85% success)
   ```
   Use an AED if available; lightning strike can cause ventricular fibrillation. Apply pads and follow prompts. Do not delay for any reason.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **Use a wooden pole to push the victim away from the strike zone** — Victim is not electrified; pushing delays care. Wooden pole is unnecessary and may cause secondary injury. (85% fail)
- **Call 911 and wait for paramedics before touching** — Time-critical: lightning often causes cardiac arrest; immediate CPR within first 3-5 minutes doubles survival. Waiting 30 minutes is lethal. (95% fail)
- **Pour water on the victim to 'discharge' electricity** — Water does not discharge anything; it may cause hypothermia or drowning if victim is unconscious. (90% fail)