Lightning Safety: How to prepare and protect your home from lightning

Lightning is a killer, all thunderstorms are dangerous, and every thunderstorm produces lightning. Here are some tips you can use to lessen the chances you will become a victim of a lightning strike:

• Have an evacuation plan ready in the event of a thunderstorm.

• If you feel a tingling sensation or your hair stands on end, lightning may be about to occur. Crouch down quickly and cover your ears. Do not lie down or place your hands on the ground.

• Look for shelter, such as a home or large building.

• Never use a tree as shelter.

• Avoid areas that are higher than the surrounding landscape.

• Stay away from electrical boxes, outlets, windows, showers, sinks and tubs. Lightning can transfer through these items to a person.

• Keep away from metal objects such as fencing, bikes, golf carts or machinery.

• Stay away from pools, lakes, or other large bodies of water.

• Stay at least 15 feet away from other people.

• Use the 30/30 rule--go indoors if you can't count to 30 after seeing lightning before you hear the thunder, and stay inside for 30 minutes after hearing the last thunderclap.