Staying Safe During A Thunderstorm- Indoor Safety Tips

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

It is important to know how to stay safe during a thunderstorm

April showers bring May flowers. Springtime is also when we start to see thunderclouds roll in with heavy rain and lightning. It is important to know how to protect yourself and your family from the potential hazards associated with thunderstorms.

Sometimes thunderstorms produce hail which can vary in size from the size of a Tic-Tac to the size of a grapefruit! These chunks of ice can plummet to earth at speeds up to 120 mph.

Thunderstorms also produce lightning which can kill or seriously injure one caught in its path. Here are some safety tips to follow once you get indoors:

• Stay inside until the storm is over.
• Stay away from windows, skylights and doors as high winds and hail can break the glass.
• Don’t use corded phones and electronics like power tools or computers. The electrical wires can conduct lightning.
• Don’t use the shower/bathtub, wash dishes, do laundry or wash your hands as the metal plumbing is also conductive.
• Keep candles, matches/lighters, flashlights and batteries in a secure and easy to reach location in case they are needed during a power outage.
• Keep a first aid kit fully stocked and in an accessible location in your home.
• Always have emergency non-perishable food and potable water in your pantry just in case.