Discharge static safely with a key or coin

Before touching a metal doorknob, hold a metal key or coin firmly and press it against the metal surface first. The static charge discharges through the key instead of through your fingertip, eliminating or greatly reducing the painful spark.

Why It Works

A static shock hurts because the charge jumps across a tiny point of contact on your skin, concentrating the current. A metal key provides a larger, more conductive discharge path, and because the spark occurs at the key's tip rather than your nerve-rich fingertip, you feel little or nothing.

Tips

• If you have no key handy, touch a painted wall or wooden surface first -- these are mildly conductive and drain the charge gradually
• Touch the back of your hand to the metal surface as an alternative -- the skin there is less sensitive, so the shock feels milder
• Make this a habit before exiting your car, where seat friction builds significant charge