Lightning... It Deserves Your Attention

Two-thirds of all lightning strikes occur in June, July, and August. With so many people spending time outdoors, electrifying summer storms can be dangerous for people and property, warns the Insurance Information Institute.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that there are more than 40 million lightning strikes each year resulting in over 300 injuries and nearly 100 deaths, making it the second most deadly natural disaster next to flooding. Electrical storms cause deaths on the East coast, but result in more forest fires in the Western United States . In fact, lightning is responsible for over 10,000 forest fires each year, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Electrical Storm Safety Tips

In the event that there is an electrical storm, it is important that everyone knows how to protect themselves from the underrated killer. The NOAA and the I.I.I. suggest the following:

•  Avoid dangerous lightning situations. – Monitor weather reports before heading out on the water, to a picnic, golf course or other outdoor activity. If thunderstorms are predicted, plan to do something indoors instead.

•  Seek safe shelter immediately if the sky becomes dark or you hear thunder- - Lightning is already dangerously close. If you are out in the water or in the woods, head for safety. These are dangerous lightning situations. Avoid open areas, large trees, and metal objects. The two best places to be in an electrical storm are:

•  Substantial building such as a home or office building. – When inside, avoid using the telephone (it is the number one indoor injury associated with lightning) or any electrical appliance. Do not take a bath or shower and turn off air conditioners.

•  Hard-topped metal vehicles such as a car or bus.—Not Convertibles!! Roll up all of the windows and avoid touching any metal inside.

•  Wait until it is safe to go back outside-- Many people are injured when they go outside too soon. Be sure to wait at least 30 minutes from the last lightning flash before leaving a safe place.

•  Get medical assistance for lightning victims immediately! A person struck by lightning does not carry an electrical charge that can shock those trying to provide first aid. Check for burns and breathing problems. Get emergency medical assistance and give CPR if needed.

•  Consider installing a lightning rod to protect property. They can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,500 and can be tricky to install, but they can help to protect the property.

Lightning, a powerful force of Mother Nature, deserves your attention.

Take these steps to protect yourself and your property.