National Weather Service - basic lightning safety rules

Things to remember...lightning can strike several miles away from the thunderstorm's rain.

WHEN THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS.

Also, there is NO completely safe place outdoors when lightning is in the area. It is a matter of risk reduction.

Here are some basic lightning safety rules...

- If thunderstorms are in the forecast, think about scaling back on your outdoor activities.

- If you are outdoors in the frontcountry and hear thunder, you should get indoors in a modern, enclosed building, or get into a metal-topped vehicle.

- If you are outdoors in the backcountry, plan your ascent and descent of mountains during the morning. Have turn-around times that will get you off exposed terrain before storms develop or arrive.

- If you are in the mountains above timberline, and you hear thunder, go quickly to a lower area below timberline, preferably using a ravine.

- If you are below timberline, and you hear thunder, find a dry ravine or other significant depression. Stay away from lone trees or lone bushes. If you are in an area of dense timber, do your best to stay away from the taller trees.

- If you are in a group, and you hear thunder, keep about 20 feet apart. If someone is struck, others will be able to help the victim with rescue breathing or triage.

- Assume the lightning position; crouch and put your feet together, preferably on a foam pad, or sit on your backpack to reduce current flow.

For more detailed information on backcountry lightning risk reduction, click HERE.

Again, remember, WHEN THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS.