|
|
|
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.
.
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.
|
Outdoors
-
Find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles.
-
If you are in the woods, take shelter under short trees.
-
If you feel your skin tingle or your hair stands on end, perform the following actions:
-
Squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet.
-
Place your hands on your knees with your head between them.
-
Make yourself the smallest target possible
-
Minimize your contact with the ground.
|
After the Storm
- Check on neighbors who may require special assistance -infants, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
- Avoid all downed power lines. Assume that all have live electricity.
- Continue to monitor NOAA Weather Radio and your local media for latest weather updates and official information.
[*Source: NYS Emergency Management Office]
|
|
|