Storm Safety

Summer is a time for warm weather and for hurricane season. Did you also know it's the peak season for thunderstorms and lightning?
Your Red Cross has some steps for families to take to remain safe during lightning storms:

• 
  Keep an eye on the sky. Look for darkening skies, flashes of light, or increasing wind. Listen for the sound of thunder.
• Listen to Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for the latest weather forecasts and emergency updates.
• If a storm is approaching:
  Find shelter in a building or car. Keep car windows closed and avoid convertibles. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.
• Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead.
• Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any other purpose. Turn off the air conditioner.
• If you are caught outside during a storm:
• Try to reach a safe building.
  Avoid high ground; water; isolated trees; and metal objects such as fences or bleachers.
  Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT safe.
  If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately!
  Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
  When the storm is over:
  Never drive through a flooded roadway.
  Stay away from storm-damaged areas.
  Listen to the radio for information and instructions