Lightning

To estimate how far away the lightning is, count the seconds between the flash of lightning and the thunderclap. Each second is about 300 metres. If you count less than 5 seconds, take shelter immediately.

Outside

1. If caught in the open, do not lie flat but crouch in the leapfrog position and lower your head. You do not want to be the tallest object in the area.
2. Take shelter in a building or depressed area such as a ditch or a culvert but never under a tree.
3. Do not ride bicycles, motorcycles or golf carts or use metal shovels or golf clubs as they conduct electricity.
4. If swimming or in a boat, get back to shore immediately.
5. If you are in a vehicle, stay there but pull away from trees, which might fall on you.

1. If indoors or in RV, stay there but keep away from windows, doors, fireplaces, radiators, stoves, sinks, bathtubs, appliances, metal pipes, telephones, and other materials, which conduct electricity. You can use a cell phone.
2. Unplug radios and televisions.
3. Do not go out to rescue the laundry on the clothesline as it conducts electricity.