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Lightning Safety

During the past 30 years, lightning killed an average of 58 people per year. This is higher than 57 deaths per year caused by tornadoes and average 48 deaths to hurricanes.

Lightning safety awareness should be a priority at every outdoor facility and operation. Education is the single most important means to achieving lightning safety. The following steps are suggested by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:

1. Monitor weather conditions in the early morning hours. Local weather forecasts -- from The Weather Channel or NOAA Weather Radio -- should be noted 24 hours prior to scheduled activities. An inexpensive portable weather radio is recommended for obtaining timely storm data.

2. Suspension and resumption of outdoor activities should be planned in advance. Understanding of SAFE shelters is essential. SAFE evacuation sites include:

  • Fully enclosed metal vehicles with windows up (avoid contact with metal in vehicle)
  • Substantial buildings
  • Low ground -- seek cover in clumps of bushes
  • Trees of uniform height, such as a forest

3. UNSAFE SHELTER AREAS include all outdoor metal objects, like power poles, fences and gates, high mast light poles, metal bleachers, electrical equipment, mowing and road machinery. AVOID solitary trees. AVOID water. AVOID open fields. AVOID high ground and caves.

4. Lightning's distance from you is easy to calculate: If you hear thunder, the associated lightning is within audible range ... about 6-8 miles away. The distance from Strike A to Strike B also can be 6-8 miles. Suspend activities, allowing sufficient time to get to shelter. Of course, different distances to safety will determine different times to suspend activities. A good lightning safety motto is: If you can see it (lightning), flee it; if you can hear it (thunder), clear it.


The 30/30 Rule says to shut down when lightning is six miles away. Use a "flash to bang" (lightning to thunder) count of five seconds equals one mile (10 = 2 miles; 20 = 4 miles; 30 = 6 miles).

5. If you feel your hair standing on end, and/or hear "crackling noises," you are in lightning's electric field. If caught outside during close-in lightning, immediately remove metal objects (including baseball cap), place your feet together, duck your head, and crouch down low in baseball catcher's stance with hands on knees.

6. Wait a minimum of 30 minutes from the last observed lightning or thunder before resuming activities. Be extra cautious during this phase as the storm may not be over.

7. People who have been struck by lightning do not carry an electrical charge and are safe to handle. Apply first aid immediately if you are qualified to do so. Perform CPR if the person is unresponsive or not breathing.  Get emergency help promptly.

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