Lightning Safety Awareness Week is June 24-30

The Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness is encouraging all Ohioans to know what to do before, during and after thunderstorms, and to practice severe weather safety and preparedness throughout the summer during National Lightning Safety Awareness Week, June 24-30, according to a news release.

Although lightning strikes can occur at any time during the year, summertime is usually peak season for thunder and lightning storms. Since the inception of Lightning Safety Awareness Week, lightning fatalities in the U.S. have dropped from about 50 per year to an average of 30 or less per year, according to the release. The National Weather Service attributes this reduction to this weather safety campaign and to a greater awareness of lightning danger, and people seeking safe shelter when thunderstorms threaten.

As of June 8, there have been five lightning-strike fatalities in the country this year, including a 7-year-old boy from Tennessee, according to the NWS. In 2017, there were 16 lightning fatalities in a total of six states, including an 82-year-old man from Brewster, Ohio, in Stark County.

There is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area. If you hear thunder, you are likely within striking distance of the storm. The motto “When thunder roars, go indoors!” reminds resident to stop outdoor activities and seek safe shelter immediately. Stay indoors at until at least 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder or crack of lightning.

Some tips from NWS and the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness on what to do if thunder and lightning storms are happening in your area:

• Listen to current weather reports on local TV or radio stations, or use a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio. Be aware of changing weather conditions. Severe thunderstorms can hail, damaging winds and/or tornadoes.

• Avoid contact with corded phones and devices, including those plugged into electrical outlets for recharging. Cordless and wireless phones not connected to wall outlets are safe to use.

• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. If you can do so safely, unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers, and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

• Avoid contact with plumbing and water. Do not wash your hands, bathe or shower. Do not wash dishes or do laundry. Water and plumbing conduct electricity.

If you’re caught outside during a storm:

• Take shelter in a sturdy, substantial building. Avoid isolated sheds or small structures in open areas, such as baseball dugouts.

• Avoid natural lightning rods, such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area. Also avoid hilltops or open fields.

• Avoid being in or near bodies of water, such as the beach, a swimming pool, fishing or on a boat.

• Avoid contact with anything metal — tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs and bicycles.

• If driving during a severe thunderstorm, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency hazard lights until the heavy rain stops. Avoid flooded roadways; just 12 inches of moving water can sweep away most vehicles.

Since the inception of Lightning Safety Awareness Week, lightning fatalities in the U.S. have dropped from about 50 per year to an average of 30 or less per year, according to the release

For additional information on lightning safety, visit the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness at weathersafety.ohio.gov, ReadyOhio at ready.ohio. gov, or the NWS site at www.lightningsafety. noaa.gov.