July and August, not surprisingly, are the months when lightning strikes are most numerous. With frequent and intense storms rolling through the area this season, it can never hurt to keep in mind basic strategies for safety during storms.
Although the likelihood of being struck by lightning is low ( CDC estimates it hits an estimated 1 in 700,000 people a year), lightning is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States.
Here are some basic tips to keep safe in a storm:
~ If you are outside, seek shelter immediately after hearing thunder. Do not wait until you see lightning, it's never far behind.
~ Do not seek shelter under a tree or overhanging rock. Lightning seeks the highest points.
~ Stay away from anything metal. Metal conducts electricity and proximity to it increases the likelihood of being injured in the event of a strike.
~ If you are in a body of water and you hear thunder, leave the water immediately.
~ If inside, stay away from windows and avoid using electrical appliances for the duration of the storm.
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