Lightning Safety

Do you know what to do if you are caught in the open during a thunderstorm?

Lightning causes, on average, 54 deaths in the U.S. annually. Plan ahead and always listen to the latest forecast before heading outside. And, remember: You don't have to be right under a thunderstorm to be at risk--if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck! If there is a chance for thunderstorms, make sure you have a place of safety in mind if a storm should develop.

When Inside:

Avoid using corded telephones (except for emergencies), electrical appliances, and electronic equipment.
Do not take a bath or shower.
Go inside a building or all-metal vehicle
Avoid water (swimming pools, lakes & rivers), beaches & boats
Stay away from doors, windows, metal indoor fixtures & electrical devices
Avoid open high ground and isolated large trees
Do not lean on vehicles. Get off bicycles & motorcycles.
Use the 30-30 rule for outdoor activityThe 30-30 rule: Count the seconds between seeing the lightning and hearing the thunder. If this time is 30 seconds or less, then the lightning is close enough to be a threat. Seek shelter immediately. After seeing the last lightning flash, wait 30 minutes before leaving shelter. More than half of all lightning deaths occur after the thunderstorm has passed. Stay in a safe area until you are sure the threat has passed.

If Caught Outdoors:

Go to a safe shelter immediately such as inside a sturdy, enclosed building. A hard top automobile with the windows up can also offer protection.
If you are boating or swimming, get out of the water immediately and move to a safe shelter away from the water!
Avoid isolated trees or other tall objects, bodies of water, sheds, fences, convertible automobiles, tractors, and motorcycles.

Bottom Line:

There is no safe place outdoors in a thunderstorm!

Lightning Facts:

All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous
Wisconsin averages over 30 days each year with thunderstorms
Lightning bolts can travel 20 miles before striking the ground
Most lightning deaths occur when people are caught outdoors
Lightning often strikes as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall
High winds, rainfall and a darkening cloud cover are the warning signals for possible cloud-to-ground lightning strikes