Safety during lightening storms

Summer is the peak season for one of America's deadliest weather phnomena — lightning.

In 2008, hundreds of people were permanently injured by lightning strikes across the country, and 28 were killed. This year-todate, 11 people have been killed by lightning, and statistically, the 4th of July is one of the most deadly times of the year.

"All thunderstorms produce lightning and no place outside is safe when lightnings in the area," said FEMA acting regional administrator Dennis Hunsinger. "When thunder roars? Go indoors! If you can hear thunder, you are in danger. We all need to incorporate lightning safety into our family disaster planning."

Lightning safety tips for inside the home include:

• Avoid contact with corded phones.

• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. If you plan to unplug any electronic equipment, do so well before the storm arrives.

• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry.

• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.

• Do not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls.

Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall, creating hotspots that smolder for days, to erupt when conditions are right.

"Summer is aIso wildfire season in the Pacific Northwest," cautions Hunsinger. "Those of us who live in urban interface areas, wooded lots, or near heavily-grassed and dry rangeland should create fire-safe perimeters."

For more info., on lightning safety, visit www.lightningsafety. noaa.gov.