Severe Storms
Preparedness

• Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light, or increasing wind. Listen for the sound of thunder
• Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light, or increasing wind. Listen for the sound of thunder.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to safe shelter immediately.
• In the United States, listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for the latest weather forecasts.
  
  When a Storm Approaches . . .
• Find shelter in a building or car. Keep car windows closed and avoid convertibles.
• Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances.
• Avoid taking a bath or shower or running water for any other purpose.
• Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressor, resulting in a costly repair job!
• Draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows break due to objects blow by the wind the shades will prevent glass from shattering into your home.
  
  
  
  
  

• Go to a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles or metal objects.
• Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
• Squat low to the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible.
• Do not lie flat on the ground -- this will make you a larger target!
  
  If Someone is Struck by Lightning...
• People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely
• Call for help (911)
• The injuried person has recieved an electrical shock and may be bruned, both where they were struck and where the electricity left thier body. CHeck for burns in both places.
• Give first aid. If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR.