Lightening is the second leading cause of severe weather related
deaths. Lightening is especially dangerous because it can strike
as far away as 20 miles from the storm itself. It often catches
people unaware because it can strike even if the storm is small, or
when storm conditions are not extreme or severe. Here are some
important tips to protect yourself and your family.
Lightning
tends to strike tall objects as well as metal objects, and travel
through moist soils for dozens of feet. Move into a sturdy
building and stay away from windows and doors. For increased
protection, avoid electric appliances or metal plumbing. Stay off
the telephone.
If you are outside, the interior of a car,
truck or bus is relatively safe from lightning. To be safe, do
not touch metal on the inside of the vehicle. The outside bed of
a truck is a deadly location. Do not lean against a car or truck,
get inside the vehicle quickly.
If you are outdoors with no
shelter available, stay low. Move away from hills and high
places, and avoid tall, isolated trees. Do not touch metal
objects, such as tennis rackets, baseball bats or golf clubs. Do
not ride bicycles, or lean against fences or metal sheds.
If
you feel your hair suddenly stand on end, it means you may be a
lightning target. Crouch low on the balls of your feet and try
not to touch the ground with your knees or hands. Avoid wet areas
that can conduct the lightning
