Take a scorching summer day in August, add a cold front from the north and you have the ingredients for a thunderstorm. Though the cooling effect of a summer shower is welcome after a searing hot day, the lightning that accompanies it can be deadly, especially if you are caught outdoors when it approaches. As those who have been struck by lightning and have lived to tell about it will agree, storms must be taken as a serious threat to your life. Numerous incidents are reported each year where people are struck by lightning while on the golf course, the ball field, or even just walking down the street. As these electrical charges search for a place to ground out, make sure you’re not in their path by following the tips below:

Safe evacuation sites:

• Fully enclosed metal vehicles with windows up
• Substantial buildings
• The low ground. Seek cover in clumps of bushes.

Unsafe shelter areas:

• Avoid all outdoor metal objects, such as flag poles, fences and gates, high mast   light poles, metal bleachers, golf carts, machinery, etc.
• Avoid trees
• Avoid water
• Avoid open fields
• Avoid high ground

To be safe, you can calculate lightning’s distance from you. If you can hear thunder, it and the lightning are within auditory distance (6-8 miles). Since the distance from Strike A to Strike B also can be 6-8 miles, it’s best you find shelter immediately. If you already hear ‘crackling noises’ or you feel your hair standing on end, you are already in the lightning’s electric field. When it is this close you should crouch down with your feet together and hands over your ears. Also, avoid being in close proximity of other people (minimum of 15 feet).

If someone should be struck by lightning, don’t be afraid to help him or her. People who have been struck by lightning do not carry an electrical charge and are safe to handle. Get emergency help promptly.

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New Jersey recommend that it is best to suspend outdoor activities until 30 minutes have passed where lightning and thunder are no longer observed. This will assure you the storm has passed along far enough where there is no longer danger.