Do you know what to do if you are caught in the open during a thunderstorm or you feel tingling or your hair standing on end?

Lightning causes around 100 deaths in the U.S annually (more than hurricanes and tornadoes combined). For example, a young woman and her friends were severely injured by lightning when no rain was falling, clearly illustrating that lightning can strike up to several miles away from the thunderstorm.

General lightning safety rules:

• When Inside:
  • Avoid using the telephone (except for emergencies) or other electrical appliances.
  • Do not take a bath or shower.
• If Caught Outdoors:
  • Go to a safe shelter immediately, such as inside a sturdy building! A hard-top automobile with the windows up can also offer fair protection.
  • If you are boating or swimming, get out of the water immediately and move to a safe shelter away from the water!
  • If you are in a wooded area, seek shelter under a thick growth of relatively small trees. If you feel your hair standing on end, squat down with your head between your knees as close to the ground as possible. Do not lie flat!
  • Avoid: isolated trees or other tall objects, bodies of water, sheds, fences, convertible automobiles, tractors, and motorcycles.