How to Be Safe in Thunderstorms

Lightning is often the highlight of any thunderstorm, and it's not difficult to see why. It streaks across the turbulent sky with unmatched speed, power and beauty. It has captivated the hearts of many poets, writers, photographers and dreamers; however, it has also injured and killed many people. The U.S. National Weather Service reports that 73 people per year in the U.S. alone die from lightning strikes. Thunderstorms are also dangerous in many other ways; they bring with them a maelstrom of other harmful energies that maim and kill people every year, all over the world. It's very important to stay safe during a thunderstorm.

Instructions

• 1

  Inform yourself of incoming storms. The best way to protect yourself is to have prior knowledge of a coming storm. That way, you are not caught off guard and you can properly prepare for anything that might come your way. Listen to the radio or weather broadcast to learn if any storms are imminent. Before leaving on a trip, check out the forecast to see if any storms will be in the area where you are staying, and postpone the trip if needed.

• 2

  Clear away any debris. Thunderstorms often bring with them strong, violent winds that can pick up heavy objects and throw them at you with great force. Make sure to clear the surrounding outside area of toys, furniture, ornaments, or anything else that could potentially be picked up by the wind and thrown into a window or person. Also keep any trees in your area well trimmed and healthy, so dead branches don't become a hazard.

• 3

  Find decent shelter. When a storm hits, the best course of action is to get indoors. Any shelter is better than no shelter, but the safest places to hide are usually large, low-rise, structurally sound buildings that are grounded with plumbing and electrical wiring. Use a car for shelter if you don't have a building. Be sure not to contact any metal objects that can transfer electricity to you. If you only have trees for shelter, go under the biggest cluster of short trees you can find. Single tall trees and tall skinny buildings like water towers attract lighting the most.

• 4

  Learn the lightning crouch. This is a simple position to use when you are caught outside and have no way to get to a safe shelter. Simply crouch down on the ground, place your head between your knees, and cup your hands over your ears. Be sure to make yourself as small a target as possible, and be sure you are shorter then anything around you. Never lie flat on the ground, or you will conduct electricity much more easily.

• 5

  Take proper indoor precautions. Unplug all electrical devices. Don't use a hard-wire phone. Stay away from windows, large hanging decorations, or anything breakable. Keep your distance from plumbing, electrical outlets, or anything metal that could conduct electricity. Try to stay in the inner rooms and keep as warm and comfortable as possible until the storm passes.