Lightning Safety

Lightning has been seen in volcanic eruptions, extremely intense forest fires , surface nuclear detonations, heavy snowstorms , and in large hurricanes . However, you can see it most often in thunderstorms . In fact, lightning (and the thunder that results) is what makes a thunderstorm. Lightning can occur from cloud-to-cloud, cloud-to-ground, cloud-to-air, or within a cloud.

Thunderstorms and lightning are most likely to develop on hot, humid days. If you see lightning, take protective action, such as seeking shelter, immediately. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) , a safe building has a roof, walls, and a floor, such as a home, school, office building, or a shopping center. They provide safety because lightning will usually travel through the wiring or the plumbing into the ground. Additional  lightning safety tips  are available from the NWS.

Please note: All  lightning victims  should have a medical examination. Call the local emergency department for help. Get to the victim as quickly as possible; it is not dangerous to touch someone hit by lightning. Check for injuries, but do not move a suspected spinal injury victim.

Lightning Safety Awareness Week takes place annually in June. The week emphasizes indoor safety and outdoor risk reduction tips, lightning medical facts, and the science of lightning. In 2011, it will take place from June 19 through June 25.

Additional Resources:

• Lightning Safety Website
• Lightning Lesson Plan  
• Frequently Asked Lightning Questions
• Guides, Presentations, Activities, and Resources for Teachers
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Thunderstorms and Lightning - includes information on what to do before ,  during , and after a thunderstorm/lightning .
• FEMA: Lightning Safety for Kids
• NWS: Lightning Safety for Kids