Storm Safety

Here are some tips to help you protect yourself and your family when a big storm hits:

Outdoors

Lightning is attracted to metal and water, and tends to strike the highest or tallest objects.  YOU ARE IN A STRIKE ZONE IF YOU HEAR THUNDER FIVE SECONDS OR LESS AFTER YOU SEE LIGHTNING! 

If the hair on your hand or arm stands on end, a nearby lightning strike is eminent.

• Avoid wide, open areas such as fields and golf courses.
• Stay off hilltops and other high points of land.
• Don’t stand near trees or tall poles
• Stay away from tall objects
• Avoid metal objects such as golf carts and clubs, lawn mowers and pipes.
• Get to the lowest point of ground you can, and kneel or squat to minimize your contact points with the ground.
• Do not lie flat.  This will make you a bigger target.
• Don’t huddle with others.  Spread out at least 15 feet apart.
• Remove golf shoes or steel-toed boots.
• If you’re out on the water, get to land.
• If you’re in a pool, get out.

Downed Power Lines

• Stay at least 100 feet away
• If the power line has fallen on your car while you’re in it, don’t touch anything metal in the car, and stay inside until professional help arrives.
• Never try to help someone trapped by a power line.  You endanger your own safety.  Instead, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Indoor Safety

• Stay away from windows during strong winds.  Tree limbs and other wind-borne objects can be a hazard.
• Electrical wiring attracts lightning.  Avoid using the telephone, except for emergencies.
• Lighting can move through a home’s plumbing, attracted to the metal or water.  Avoid using sinks and showers.
• Disconnect computers, TV’s, and other delicate electronic equipment.  Consider attaching surge protectors to such equipment.

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