What to do during a storm?

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

Most of the U.S. will experience thunderstorms from time to time, but the state with the highest occurrence of storms might be surprising.

Before

• Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Look for lightning and go indoors if you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder; stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last thunder-clap
• Consider investing in a personal lightning detector
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage
• Shut all windows and secure outside doors
• Unplug electronic equipment

During

• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords, including devices plugged in for recharging (consider unplugging valuable electronics in case of power surge)
• Water conducts electricity, so avoid contact with plumbing
• Stay away from windows and doors and stay off porches
• Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls
• Avoid natural lightning rods, such as tall isolated trees, and avoid isolated small structures in open areas
• Avoid contact with metal, including farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts and bicycles
• If you are driving, safely exit or pull over and park; do not touch any surface that conducts electricity in or outside of the vehicle

After

• Never drive through a flooded roadway
• Avoid storm-damaged areas
• Help people who may require special assistance
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately
• Watch your pets closely; keep them indoors if possible