The National Weather Service has declared June 21-27 “Lightning Safety Awareness Week” to highlight the dangers of lightning and show what people can do to prevent being struck. So far in 2009, 15 people have been killed by lightning and many others have been injured.
To avoid being struck by lightning, the National Weather Service recommends that you:
*Get into a fully enclosed building or hardtop vehicle at the first rumble of thunder;
*Stay indoors for 30 minutes after the last thunder clap;
*Monitor the weather forecast when you’re planning to be outdoors;
*Have a plan for getting to safety in case a thunderstorm moves in;
*Do not use a corded phone during a thunderstorm unless it’s an emergency; cell phones are safe to use;
*Keep away from plumbing, electrical equipment and wiring during a thunderstorm.
For more information, check out the National Weather Service’s Lightning Safety webpage here.
