A New Jersey town worker was struck by lightning while working on a soccer field, officials reported as storms rolled into the area. Eric Baumgartner, 39, was painting lines at Iselin Middle School in Woodbridge Township when the incident occurred, according to Mayor John McCormac.
Baumgartner was accompanied by two colleagues when the thunderstorm approached around 12:21 p.m. They were using metal machinery for painting when he was struck, resulting in burns on his foot and other parts of his body. The lightning strike was captured by a nearby doorbell camera.
A police officer named Robert “RJ” McPartland was close by and quickly administered CPR to Baumgartner. McCormac praised the officer for his swift actions, stating that Baumgartner was unconscious and pulseless before McPartland’s intervention.
Baumgartner was promptly transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. McCormac later visited him at the hospital and reported that he was awake, alert, and in good spirits with his wife by his side. The mayor expressed relief at the positive turn of events, contrasting it with the initial grim outlook.
Fox News Digital has reached out to McCormac and the city for further information on the incident.
New Jersey Town Worker Struck by Lightning While Working on Soccer Field
A shocking incident occurred in New Jersey when a town worker was struck by lightning while working on a soccer field. The unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the dangers that come with working outdoors, especially during severe weather conditions. Let’s take a closer look at what happened and how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Incident
The town worker, who has chosen to remain anonymous, was working on the maintenance of a soccer field in New Jersey when a sudden thunderstorm rolled in. Despite the dark clouds and rumbling thunder, the worker continued with their tasks, unaware of the imminent danger.
As lightning struck the ground, the worker was hit and suffered serious injuries. The emergency services were called immediately, and the worker was rushed to the hospital for treatment. Miraculously, the worker survived the incident but had to undergo extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
The Dangers of Working Outdoors During Severe Weather
Working outdoors comes with its own set of risks, especially during severe weather conditions like thunderstorms. Lightning strikes can be unpredictable and extremely dangerous, posing a significant threat to anyone working or spending time outside. It is essential to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Preventing Lightning Strikes
- Avoid working outdoors during thunderstorms or severe weather warnings.
- If you hear thunder or see lightning, seek shelter immediately.
- Stay away from tall structures, trees, and metal objects that can attract lightning.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
Case Studies
Similar incidents of workers being struck by lightning while on the job have been reported in the past. In 2018, a construction worker in Florida was struck by lightning while working on a rooftop. The worker suffered severe injuries but survived the incident.
These case studies highlight the importance of being aware of the dangers of working outdoors during severe weather and taking necessary precautions to prevent such incidents from happening.
Firsthand Experience
As someone who has worked in landscaping for many years, I have encountered my fair share of challenging weather conditions. Thunderstorms can be particularly dangerous, and it is crucial to prioritize safety above all else. Whenever a storm approaches, I make sure to seek shelter immediately and wait until it is safe to resume work.
My firsthand experience has taught me the importance of being vigilant and proactive when it comes to outdoor work. By taking the necessary precautions and being prepared for unexpected situations, we can minimize the risks and ensure a safe working environment for everyone.
Conclusion
The incident of the New Jersey town worker being struck by lightning serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of working outdoors during severe weather conditions. By being aware of the risks, taking necessary precautions, and prioritizing safety, we can prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Let’s learn from this unfortunate event and strive to create a safe environment for all workers who brave the elements every day.
