Lightning Safety Tips from the NWS

Lightning is the #2 severe weather related killer, averaging 58 deaths and over an estimated 500 injuries per year. The vast majority of lightning victims survive, but are often left with debilitating and permanent physical and mental effects.

Remember, “When thunder roars, go indoors!”

When outside

· REMEMBER, NO PLACE OUTSIDE IS SAFE DURING A THUNDERSTORM

· Watch for approaching or developing thunderstorms.

· Seek shelter as soon as you hear thunder. If you are close enough to hear thunder,

you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

· Seek shelter in a sturdy building away from windows, appliances, and plumbing.

· If sturdy shelter is not available, get into a hard topped vehicle.

· Do NOT seek shelter under trees or other tall and isolated objects.

· Do NOT seek shelter in partially-enclosed structures.

When indoors

· Avoid contact with plumbing and corded appliances.

· Stay away from doors and windows.

· Steer clear of porches, as well as walls and floors that might be metal reinforced.

· Remain in shelter for 30 minutes after the last thunder is heard.

· Remember to bring your pets inside.

· Have a NOAA Weather Radio handy for 24-hour information on thunderstorms and

other hazardous weather.

What do you do if someone has been struck by lightning?

First, call 911 and get medical care immediately. Cardiac arrest and irregularities, burns, and nerve damage are common in cases where people are struck by lightning. However, with proper treatment, including CPR if necessary, most victims survive a lightning strike, although they may be left with serious and lasting effects. You are in no danger when helping a lightning victim, and may safely do so immediately. Lightning strike victims do not carry a charge.

While injuries and deaths occur frequently due to lightning, property damage occurs even more frequently. “Lightning can very quickly set a tree ablaze or spark a house fire,” says Indiana Fire Marshal Jim Greeson. “That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to have properly installed, functional smoke detectors. Every home should also have at least one fire extinguisher, and every person of appropriate age

in the home should know how to use it correctly.”

Visit http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov for information, educational resources for adults and children, photos, survivor stories, and media resources on lightning and the danger it poses.

Find the latest forecasts and warnings for central Indiana at http://nws.noaa.gov