Thunderstorms · 7 min read
Thunderstorm and lightning safety: what to do
Know where to shelter from lightning at home, outdoors or on the road and what to do afterward.
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Open my free checklist →Prepare before the storm arrives
Monitor local alerts, secure outdoor objects and charge essential devices. Before outdoor activity, identify a substantial building or hard-topped vehicle that you can reach quickly.
Shelter when you hear thunder
Thunder means lightning is close enough to be dangerous. Go indoors or into a hard-topped vehicle with windows closed. Stay away from windows, plumbing and corded electrical equipment while lightning is active.
- Do not shelter beneath an isolated tree, open pavilion or tent.
- Leave ridges, open fields, beaches, pools and exposed metal objects.
- While driving, slow down and never enter flooded roads.
Afterward and first aid
Check official warnings before resuming activity. A person struck by lightning carries no electrical charge and can be touched. Call emergency services, check breathing and follow dispatcher instructions; begin CPR if trained or directed.
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