Thunder and Lightning, isn’t it Frightening?
-- Virginia Morgan
I vaguely remember a line from a long ago song – “Thunder and lightning, isn’t it frightening?” Although I don’t remember the rest of the song or who sang it, I do know that the question is an apt one, especially in summer. I’m afraid of lightning, so I tend to head for shelter when I see it. Did you know that not all shelters are safe from lightning?
According to the National Weather Service, any shelter that does not contain plumbing or wiring throughout or some other means of grounding from roof to ground is not safe. Avoid open shelters and small wooden, vinyl, or metal sheds when lightning is around. Other things to avoid when lightning is around: contact with corded telephones, electrical equipment or cords, plumbing, or concrete floors or walls. It is also not wise to be near doors, windows, or porches.
For more information about lightning safety, visit Lightning Safety. This site also has materials you can use during Lightning Safety Week. Another excellent resource is the Severe Thunderstorms chapter of “Talking About Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages.” The handbook was developed by the Coalition of Organizations for Disaster Education.
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