How to Prevent Static Shocks

Many people have suffered the zap and sting that come with being shocked by static electricity. Static electricity is generated when the atoms of two different objects, such as yourself and your car's seat, rub together. This results in a buildup of static electricity that is released once a conductor, such as a metal door handle, is touched. There are several ways to avoid the uncomfortable shock that is associated with static electricity.

Things You'll Need

• Antistatic hand lotion
• Leather shoes
• Thimble

Instructions

1. Pick up your feet when walking. This is especially important when walking on a carpeted area. The rubbing together of your feet and the surface below will cause static electricity to build, which is released and causes the zap.

2. Wear clothing made of natural fibers, such as cotton or wool. These are less likely to hold the charge that leads to a static shock than clothing manufactured from synthetic materials, such as polyester.

3. Apply a layer of antistatic hand lotion to your hands and skin. This will add moisture to your skin, which can cut down on the conduction of static electricity.

4. Wear leather shoes, as opposed to shoes made from plastic or other synthetic materials. The leather is less likely to conduct static electricity.

5. Wear a thimble on your finger or hold it in your hand while walking. The built up static electricity will be released on the metal thimble slowly instead of in one jolt when a conductor is touched, such as a metal doorknob.

References

• BBC: Static Electric Discharges and How to Prevent Them Zapping You
• Science Made Simple: Static Elimination Tips