National Lightning Safety Awareness Week is June 21-27, 2009. This is a great time to learn how to stay safe from the second deadliest weather killer.

Before the Storm

It is important to know how to recognize when you are at risk for a lightning storm. Knowing that a storm is coming will allow you to make plans to be indoors before the storm strikes.

• Check the internet or TV/radio stations for the forecast before leaving the house

• Check the radar and lightning detection sections of WeatherBug.com or other websites to see if storms are approaching.

• Storms can form overhead, so always check the sky for large cumulus clouds as these are the first sign of thunderstorms.

• If you feel like a storm is on its way, it is imperative to stop your outdoor activities and move to a safe indoor area.

• Lightning can strike before the rain, so be someplace safe before the threat is upon you. To know the distance of a storm, use the 30-second rule. Count how many seconds from the flash until you hear thunder. If it is greater than 30 seconds, this means you are at least 6 miles away from the storm. If less than 30 seconds, this means you are in the threat area and you should take cover immediately.

Outside During a Storm

You should never be outside during a thunderstorm. If you are outside when a storm strikes, find shelter as soon as possible. If you are not near shelter during a thunderstorm, here are a few things you can do to greatly reduce your chances of being struck:

• Go to a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles, or metal objects. Make sure the area is not prone to flooding.

• If you are in the woods, take shelter under the shortest trees.

• If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately.

• Be a very small target. Squat low to the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Laying flat on the ground will actually make you a larger target.

• Wait 30 minutes after the last flash of lightning was seen before it is safe to return to your activities.

Inside During a Storm

Indoors is the safest place during a storm; however, there are still hazards to watch out for.

• Do not use corded phones. Lightning can travel through the phone lines and electrocute you.

• Lightning can also travel through pipes. Do not take showers, baths, or wash dishes while a thunderstorm is occurring.

• Have a flashlight and/or candles available. Power failures often occur during thunderstorms.

• Unplug or turn off electronics. Lightning can cause damaging power surges.

Struck by Lightning

If you see someone get struck by lightning it is important that you help them as soon as possible.

• A person struck by lightning carries no electrical charge and can be handled safely.

• Call for help by dialing 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) number.

• The injured person has received an electrical shock and may be burned. He/she could have burns where he/she was struck and where the electricity left his/her body.

• Give first aid. If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR.