Lightning Safety Awareness Week

June 22nd through the 28th is Lightning Safety Awareness Week.  

According to NOAA, "on average, 62 people die every year from lightning strikes, with hundreds of additional injuries reported."

Here are a few safety pointers from NOAA.

If you are indoors:

"*Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. If you plan to unplug any electronic equipment, do so well before the storm arrives.
*Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry.
*Avoid contact with corded phones.
*Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
*Wait 30 minutes after you hear the last rumble of thunder before going out again."

If you are outdoors:

"*Do not seek shelter under tall or isolated trees. Lightning typically strikes the tallest object in an area.
*Avoid open areas. You don’t want to be the tallest object.
*Do not seek shelter under partially enclosed buildings.
*If you are camping, be ready to seek safe shelter in a vehicle or substantial building if a thunderstorm threatens. A tent offers no protection from lighting.
*Stay away from metal fences and poles that could conduct lightning to you.
*If you are on a boat, return to shore immediately and seek safe shelter."

Source: www.noaa.gov