Deputy Injured By Lightning Strike

[Onthemark]

Florida authorities say a Broward Sheriff's Office deputy was injured Thursday morning while directing traffic in Tamarac.

The deputy, who was standing in the intersection of North University Drive and Southgate Boulevard was injured after lightning struck a utility box that was located nearby.

"He was not struck by lightning," said Broward Sheriff's spokeswoman Gina Carter. "Because of the storm, the traffic lights were out. Lightning struck an FP&L signal box at the corner of the intersection, and that transferred some residual electricity to the deputy." "He felt a tingling, Carter added. "To be safe, we had him transported to the Cleveland Clinic in Weston to be checked out. He's doing great and will be fine."

Authorities did not release the name of the deputy, but said they will release it later in the day.

 

[mairj23]

Wow! Florida is the deadliest place in the country for lightning strikes. Just seems like when you're careful, lightning can still hit you. There should be more safety procedures for officers and people with outdoor jobs to protect them more. Maybe just sitting in cars would be better than standing out during and impending storm.