How is the possibility of lightning strikes on magazines reduced?

• A. By placing them near water sources.
• B. By locating them at the top of hills.
• C. By grounding the magazines and placing them at the base of high banks.
• D. By building them underground.

Answer: (C)

The possibility of lightning strikes on magazines is effectively reduced by grounding them and placing them at the base of high banks. Grounding provides a direct path for lightning to follow to the earth, minimizing the risk of a lightning strike causing a fire or explosion. Additionally, positioning magazines at the base of high banks can help shield them from direct strikes, as high ground often attracts lightning more than lower elevations do.

This approach is particularly critical for magazines that store explosives or flammable materials, as the consequences of a lightning strike in such situations can be catastrophic. Grounding systems can include grounding rods and connections to ensure that any electrical discharge from a lightning strike is safely directed into the earth.

Choosing other options, such as placing magazines near water sources or atop hills, does not effectively mitigate lightning risk. In fact, hills can attract lightning, and water sources do not provide any protective benefits in this context. Building magazines underground can offer some protection from lightning, but it does not address the more direct and effective method of grounding and locating them strategically.