Lightning safety awareness is something we should all focus on with the “Fourth” approaching and much of the nation expecting severe weather and heavy thunderstorms. From 2009–2018, lightning caused an average of 27 deaths per year in the United States. While the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are less than 1 in a million, some factors can put you at greater risk.

To help you and your family stay safe during lightning storms, here are 10 lightning safety tips that could save your life if you are caught in a storm. Remember, while NO safe place outside exists during a thunderstorm,knowing these tips can help reduce the risk of being struck by lightning.

1.  When thunder roars, get indoors. When lightning strikes, seek inside shelter immediately.

2.  If no shelter is available, crouch low, with as little of your body touching the ground as possible. Lightning causes electric currents along the top of the ground that can be deadly over 100 feet           away.

3.  Stay away from tall trees and objects

4.  Avoid concrete floors or wall – lightning can travel through any metal wires in concrete. water, wet items and metal objects, even indoors. And  remember, being indoors does not automatically       guarantee lightning protection.

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

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

7. Avoid water – lighning can travel through plumbin

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

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