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Step 1
If at all possible stay in doors during a lightning storm. Stay away from windows and from metal piping. This means avoiding washing dishes and talking a bath or shower. If the house is hit by lightning metal piping can become electrified.
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Step 2
If you know a storm is on its way unplug electrical appliances and devices such as televisions and computers ahead of time. If the storm blows up unannounced leave the plugged in items alone. It is not safe to attempt unplugging them during a lightning storm. If the items are struck by lightning you can be electrocuted if you are touching the plugged in cords.
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Step 3
If you are outdoors when a lightning storm begins avoid standing near trees as they can actually draw lightning. As well when a tree is struck by lightning the current travels to the ground around the tree. If you are standing near the tree you can still be charged with current even if you are not touching the stricken tree.
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Step 4
The lower to the ground you are, the safer you are. The best conductive position to take in effort to avoid being struck by lightning is to squat down on the ground and cover your ears. This will lessen your chances of being struck by electrical current.
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Step 5
If you are wearing jewelry take it off. It is a given fact that metal such as gold and silver attracts electricity. Remove all jewelry and sit it aside until the storm has passed.
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Step 6
Do not hold any items in your hand that add height. Items such as umbrellas or golf clubs with metal components and which are elevated can draw electrical current. Put these items down until the storm has passed.
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Step 7
Try to stay on low ground. Avoid standing on elevations such as tall hills or roof tops. Staying close to the ground will improve your chances of staying safe.
