Thunderstorm Safety Tips*

Before a Storm

• Check the weather forecast before leaving for extended periods outdoors.
• Watch for signs of approaching storms.
• If a storm is approaching, keep a NOAA Weather Radio or AM/FM radio with you.
• Postpone outdoor activities if storms are imminent.
• Check on neighbors who require special assistance such as infants, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Remember
If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning.

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When Thunder Roars

Go Indoors!

During a Thunderstorm

• Go to safe shelter immediately
• Move to a sturdy building.
• Do not take shelter in small sheds, under solated trees, or in convertible automobiles.
• If lightning occurs and sturdy shelter is not available, get inside a hard top automobile and keep windows up.
• Get out of boats and away from water.
• Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances not necessary for obtaining weather information.
• Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Use phones only in an emergency.
• Do not take a bath or shower.
• Turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressors.
• Get to higher ground if flash flooding or flooding is possible. Do not attempt to drive to safety. Most flash flooding deaths occur in automobiles.