Storm Safety

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Summer is here, and with it; Summer storms!

Living in the Northeast means Summer storms that can include strong wind gusts,hail,heavy rain and lightning. We usually concern ourselves with our home or our car during storms, and how we can protect them. That is great, and it is
important to take all precautions during a storm. We can't forget ourselves though. We can't always be under the protective roof of our home when a storms rolls in. We need to know how to protect ourselves from the dangers that a
storm can bring.

Lightning can strike from 10 miles away, so if you can hear thunder, you are in danger of being struck by lightning.

If you find yourself caught outside during a storm, look for a substantial building like a school, office building or home to shelter in for the duration of the storm. Once inside, you should stay away from windows and doors and
anything that conducts electricity such as corded phones, wiring and plumbing.

If you are caught outside without a safe shelter anywhere nearby, the following actions can reduce your risk:

• Never shelter under a stand alone tree or utility pole. Lightning tends to strike the taller objects that are in an area.
• Lower your elevation, if you are hiking or on a hillside, immediately make your way down.
• Stay away from sources of water, such as ponds, lakes etc. If you are swimming, get out of the water asap and seek shelter.

It's always best to monitor the weather and postpone or cancel your outdoor activities accordingly. “If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to pose an immediate threat,” said FEMA Region V Acting Administrator Janet M.
Odeshoo. “Seek shelter as quickly as possible. There is no place outside that is safe when a thunderstorm is in the area.”

For additional information on storm safety visit,https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning. You can also find very helpful information on storm preparedness Here.