One of the deadliest weather phenomena in the United States is lightning. According to the National Weather Service, an average of 51 people are killed each year by lightning and hundreds more are severely injured. But there are ways to stay out of harm’s way.

Here is some vital safety information from the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration:

When Dangerous Weather Approaches: Avoid the Lightning Threat

Have a lightning safety plan

Postpone activities

  • Before going outdoors, check the forecast for thunderstorms.
  • Consider postponing activities to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation.

Monitor the weather

Get to a safe place

  • When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors! If you hear thunder, even a distant rumble, immediately move to a safe place.
  • Fully enclosed buildings with wiring and plumbing provide the best protection.
  • Sheds, picnic shelters, tents or covered porches do not protect you from lightning.
  • If a sturdy building is not nearby, get into a hard-topped metal vehicle and close all the windows.
  • Stay inside until 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder.

Indoor Lightning Safety

  • Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity. Cellular or cordless phones are safe to use.
  • Avoid plumbing. Do not wash your hands, take a shower or wash dishes.
  • Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
  • Do not lie on concrete floors, and do not lean against concrete walls.
  • Do not unplug electrical equipment during a storm, as there is a risk you could be struck.
  • The American Meteorological Society has tips for protecting electronics from lightning.

Last Resort Outdoor Risk Reduction TipsIf you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby the following actions may reduce your risk:

  • Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges or peaks
  • Never lie flat on the ground
  • Never shelter under an isolated tree
  • Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter
  • Immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water
  • Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.)
  • NOAA has more information on its website concerning outdoor activities and thunderstorms, including more specific details for sports teams, beach, camping, and bikers.

After a Thunderstorm