“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”

This is Lightning Safety Awareness Week in the USA, so it’s appropriate to review some of the safety precautions we should all take. Between 60 and 70 people are killed and ten times more are injured each year. Remember:

• The 4^th of July is a relatively busy time for those treating lightning injuries, as more people are outside.
• Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the rain area of a thunderstorm.
• So, “when thunder roars, go indoors”, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunderclap. If driving, pull over, as a flash of lightning can cause temporary blindness.
• Fully enclosed buildings are preferable. Otherwise, find a hard-top car with all the windows rolled up.
• Avoid outdoor rain shelters, sheds, and especially tall isolated trees, which will increase your chances of being struck.
• Lightning travels through the electrical, phone, plumbing and cable systems. Cell phones are quite safe, however.

And for all you lottery players, remember you’re more likely to be killed by lightning than to win the big one!