[Strawbale] re. metal vs. plastic mesh / electric field issues

[Paul Newby]

>>...   Current flowing through the earth's surface creates a potential 
>>difference,
>>which is why you're supposed to stand on one foot during a
>>lightning storm, since current radiating from the point where
>>lightning strikes can create a hazardous potential difference between
>>your feet.
> 

>   Coming from Florida, (lightning capital of North America)  you'd think 
> I might have heard this..but no, not once have I ever heard to stand on 
> one leg during a storm.  Do you have data or links for this?

 From the 'Lighning Protection Institute' FAQ,
http://www.lightning.org/?page=faq

"Animals with all four feet in contact with earth generally fair far 
worse because the current can pass through vital organs.  It is 
important to understand that if you can stand on one foot (like a 
flamingo) or with your feet close together, you will be much safer from 
the step potential problem."

Paul N.