Storm Safety

Summer weather brings us plenty of beautiful days to get outside and enjoy a variety of different activities. However, it also can bring along storms. It’s important to pay attention to the weather when enjoying outdoor activities so you don’t get caught in a bad storm, especially ones that include thunder and lightning.

According to the National Weather Service, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, and although fatalities have decreased over the decades due to better awareness and safety measures, lightning still poses a serious threat.

The following are tips to keep in mind to remain safe during storms:

• Monitor the weather before heading outdoors.
• Seek shelter early if you hear thunder or see lightning; don’t wait until the storm is directly overhead.
• Avoid tall objects such as trees, poles, towers, open fields, and bodies of water. These places are more likely to attract lightning strikes.
• After you hear the last rumble of thunder, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.

If you are caught outdoors and there is no shelter nearby, you can minimize your risk of being struck by lightning by crouching down with your feet close together, hands on your knees, and head tucked down.

Stay safe and stay informed. As the old saying goes, when thunder roars, go indoors!