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What to do During a Lightning Storm

1. If you are inside a home

  • Avoid showering or bathing.
  • Avoid using a corded telephone, except for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
  • Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners.
  • Listen for radio updates from local officials.

2. If you are outside

  • In a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees.
  • In open areas, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods.
  • Do not stand under a natural lightning rod, such as a tall isolated tree in an open area.
  • Stay away from anything metal.
  • Do not stand on a hilltop, in an open field, on the beach, or in a boat on the water.
  • Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
  • Get away from open water, get to land and find shelter immediately
  • If you feel your hair stand on end (which indicates that lightning is about to strike), squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact with the ground. Do Not lie flat on the ground.

What to do if Someone is Struck

In the event that a person is struck by lightning, medical care may be needed immediately to save the person's life. With proper treatment, including CPR if necessary most victims survive a lightning strike.

Most people struck by lightning are not struck directly, but are affected by the current running through the ground (also known as a "side flash"). People, who are adversely affected by lightning flash, either directly or indirectly, need prompt medical attention:

  • Call 911. Provide directions and information about the likely number of lightning strike victims.
  • The first rule of emergency care is "make no more casualties". Rescuers must stay aware of the continuing danger that a lightning storm poses, both to the rescuers as well as the victim(s).

For more information on Lightning Storms visit the Florida Disaster website at http://www.FloridaDisaster.org