At the onset of the storm, move indoors to sheltered area, remain calm and take the following steps.
- Follow the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Once indoors, if after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder, then stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
- Use a hand-cranked or battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
- Avoid contact with corded phones. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safer to use, but avoid using any electric device, especially if it is corded..
- Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computers and turn off air conditioners.
- Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
- Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
- Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.
- Avoid natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area.
- Avoid hilltops, open fields.
- If at the beach or on a boat on the water, move to a sheltered location as quickly as possible.
If driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on emergency flashers until any heavy rain ends.
Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.