Lightning is a serious hazard during thunderstorms and tornadoes. More people die from Lightning strikes than any other storm related incidents.

Take these special precautions if you are threatened by lightning...

• When a thunderstorm threatens, get inside a home or large building or inside an all-metal vehicle, not a convertible.
• Inside a home, avoid using the telephone, except for emergencies. Avoid places which may hold water such as sinks, tubs and showers.
• If outside, with no time to reach a safe building or an automobile, follow these rules:
  • Do not stand underneath a natural lightning rod such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
  • Avoid projecting above the surrounding landscape, as you would do if you were standing on a hilltop, in an open field, on the beach or fishing from a small boat.
  • Get out of and away from open water.
  • Get away from tractors and other metal farm equipment.
  • Get off of and away from motorcycles, scooters, golf carts and bicycles, and put down golf clubs.
  • Stay away from wire fences, clothes lines, metal pipes, rails, and other metallic paths which could carry lightning to you from some distance away.
  • Avoid standing in small isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
  • In a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. In open areas, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods.
  • If you are isolated in a level field, and you feel your hair stand on end, drop to your knees and bend forward putting your hands on your knees. Do not lie flat on the ground.