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Lightning Safety Tips Save Email Print
Posted: 5:44 PM Apr 9, 2008
Last Updated: 3:57 PM Apr 10, 2008

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There is a chance for a few thunderstorms Friday evening, and during severe weather, quick action can keep you safe.

Next to flooding, lightning is one of the most hazardous weather phenomena. It is the number two weather-related killer in the United States. Hurricanes and tornadoes come in after that.

The odds of getting hit by lightning are one in 400,000, but it still happens.

Here's a few tips to help keep you safe if lightning has been spotted.

- If it strikes in your area, go to a large enclosed building.

- If you're stuck outdoors, don't get under a tree or lie flat on the ground. Instead, squat low, tuck your head down and try to touch the ground as little as possible.

- Always remember the 30-30 rule.

Lans Rothfusz, National Weather Service, says, "If you see that flash of lightning and hear a rumble of thunder within 30 seconds, you're at risk of getting hit by lightning. The second 30 is 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder, it's safe to go outside."

However, when you do go back outside, keep an eye on the sky for changing weather conditions.

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