Light electric shocks in the cold: that's why it happens more often in winter

When you reach for the doorknob or when you close the car door, you get a small electric shock every now and then. For a very specific reason, this phenomenon occurs more frequently in winter.

This is why light electric shocks occur more frequently in the cold

The reason why you get a slight electric shock, especially in winter or in the cold, is the dry air in the area and / or dehydrated skin.

• Normally, the positive and negative charges on the skin and the air are constantly balanced. The body is discharged through the air, which you usually don't notice.
• If the air is dry, there is no charge exchange and your body gradually recharges itself.
• Another reason for a lack of charge exchange is dry skin. Due to the lack of moisture, more and more tension builds up in the body and the body discharges when touching a metallic object or shaking hands.
• You can perceive the discharge as an electric shock and maybe even see it as a small flash in the dark. However, the slight electric shock is not dangerous.

You can do that

We have put together a few tips so that you can be protected from electric shocks in the future, despite the cold season.

• To increase the humidity, you can set up houseplants or humidifiers.
• Do not wear shoes with plastic soles or clothing made of synthetic fibers, as this prevents the charge from being exchanged. Cotton clothes and leather soles are better.
• Apply lotion to keep the skin hydrated.
• And two more tips to avoid getting an electric shock when closing the car door: Hold the car key in your hand with which you close the door or alternatively touch the body first (before your feet touch the ground) and then get out of it Automobile. So nothing sparks guaranteed.

Article originally written by Vera Stary .