Lightning is one of nature's most fascinating phenomena, but it is also one of the most dangerous. Lightning accounts for over 200 deaths in the United States alone each year.
There are several safety rules you should follow to protect yourself from lightning.
1. Wide open, outdoor spaces are particularly dangerous places to be during a thunderstorm. If you find yourself with no way to seek immediate shelter, crouch down to the ground. The tallest object in the area is particularly vulnerable to a lightning strike, and that could be you.
2. Do not seek shelter under a tree. Tall objects are susceptible to lightning strikes.
3. It is not safe to use playground equipment or hold metal objects such as golf clubs or umbrellas if lighting is nearby.
4. Water, especially from a fresh water source, is a notoriously good conductor of electricity. If you are boating, fishing, swimming or involved in any activity either near or in the water, leave the area. This is an extremely dangerous place to be in a thunderstorm.
5. Lightning can travel through water pipes into your home. Taking a shower or a bath can be a dangerous activity during a thunderstorm. If a thunderstorm is raging outside, get out of the tub.
6. The current associated with a lightning strike can travel through power, cable, and telephone lines. It is advisable to stay off the telephone and avoid using a computer, television, or other electrical appliance during thunderstorms.
