National Lightning Safety Awareness week (June 24 -30, 2018) was started in 2001 to bring attention to the dangers of lighting and how to cope with storms. Since that time, U.S. lightning fatalities have dropped from about 50 per year to about 30. This reduction in fatalities is largely due to greater awareness of the lightning danger, and people seeking safety when thunderstorms threaten.

To help you and your family stay safe during lightning storms, here are 11 quick tips that could save your life if you are caught in a storm. While NO safe place outside exists during a thunderstorm, remembering these tips can help reduce the risk of being struck by lightning…

1.  Stay away from tall trees and objects

2.  Avoid water, wet items and metal objects

3.  Avoid open fields and the tops of hills and ridges

4.  Do not put your faith in a tent or picnic shelter as they will NOT protect you

If you are inside a hardtop car during a thunderstorm, you should be safe if you:

5. Close all windows

6. Avoid touching metal objects inside the car

7. Pull over on the side of the road & turn on your hazard lights

When inside a building during a  storm:

8. Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches

9. Don’t touch electrical equipment or electronics plugged into the wall

10. Stay off corded phones and avoid plumbing

11. Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls

We at Security Specialists Want You to Stay Safe this Summer!